When Little Hands Speak: Real-Life Baby Signs® Stories from Families and Educators
One of the most powerful things about baby sign language is how it allows preverbal children to express their thoughts, feelings, and needs long before they can speak. Over the years, we’ve heard countless stories from families and early childhood educators who have experienced this first-hand—and they never fail to move us.
In our Sunday Signing Stories series, we highlight real moments where Baby Signs® made all the difference. Here are just a few examples of how a simple sign turned into something unforgettable.
❤️ A Goodbye Full of Love
"She smiled, looked Grandma in the eye, and signed 'Love.'"
During a visit with her grandmother in hospice, little Olivia wasn’t sure what to make of the situation. But over a few days—and with the help of a faithful old cat—she and her grandmother formed a bond. When it was time to go, Olivia ran back into the room, gave one last hug, and signed “LOVE.” It was a gesture more powerful than words could ever be—and it meant the world to everyone in the room.
🎧 Listen: “Forever Grateful”
🐘 Elephant? Not Quite.
"It wasn’t an elephant, but in Jeremy’s eyes—it was close enough."
15-month-old Jeremy was staring out the front window when he suddenly ran to his dad, signing “ELEPHANT” excitedly. Confused, his dad followed him back to the window—only to find their neighbor using a loud leaf blower. To Jeremy, the long nozzle waving back and forth was close enough! Thanks to Baby Signs®, he was able to share his interpretation of the world in a creative, meaningful way.
🎧 Listen: “Amused and Amazed”
😠 Mad, Not Sad
"She wasn’t sad. She was mad—and she knew how to say it."
In a child care center in California, an 18-month-old named Tessa was crying. Her teacher knelt down and said gently, “I see you’re sad.” But Tessa shook her head and signed “ANGRY,” pointing to a child who had taken her favorite toy. This moment reminded everyone in the classroom that even toddlers have complex emotions—and with the right tools, they can express them clearly.
🎧 Listen: “Astounded in California"
😂 Still Chuckling in Lake Forest
"She wasn’t choking—the bun was stuck to the roof of her mouth!"
Little Audrey was enjoying a bite of hamburger when she started urgently signing “HELP” and pointing to her mouth. Her dad checked—she wasn’t choking and could breathe just fine. But she kept signing. Finally, he looked again and discovered the bun had stuck to the roof of her mouth! It wasn’t an emergency—but it was a perfect example of how signing helps toddlers communicate clearly and avoid frustration.
🎧 Listen: “Still Chuckling”
🙏 Grace at a Birthday Party
"I just smiled and said 'Thank you.' …to signing."
At her third birthday party, Emily opened a gift she didn’t love: a plaid sweater from her great aunt. Her expression said it all… and her mom worried she might hurt Aunt Mary’s feelings. From across the room, Mom silently signed “THANK YOU.” Emily saw it, smiled, and said the words sweetly. One remembered sign helped her show gratitude—and saved the moment.
🎧 Listen: “Thank You, Signing”
Why These Stories Matter
Why These Stories MatterThese real-life moments remind us what the Baby Signs® Program is all about—connection, confidence, and clarity. When we give babies and toddlers the tools to communicate, we empower them to share what they see, feel, need, and imagine. And that makes all the difference in their relationships with the people who love and care for them.
📅 Ready to Start Signing?
If you’re curious about how signing can help your baby or the children in your care, we’d love to help you get started.
