How Does Signing and Singing Nursery Rhymes Support a Baby's Development?

Nursery Rhymes are not only fun, but they are also extremely rewarding for your baby. Introducing your baby to Signalong offers a delightful and effective way to support their early development. Signalong, which encourages babies to speak alongside signing allows babies to communicate their needs before they can speak, fostering a deeper connection between parent and child. When paired with the rhythmic patterns of nursery rhymes, this combination not only aids communication but also enriches language, cognitive, and emotional development. 

Baby looking through the Signalong for Babies Learning Cards

What are the key ways in which signing and singing nursery rhymes supports early childhood development? 

1. Cognitive and Language Development

Singing nursery rhymes helps children develop vocabulary, pronunciation, and early literacy skills by exposing them to rhythm and repetition. The repetition and rhythm in songs like "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star" or "The Wheels on the Bus" enhance memory and attention span. Incorporating signing alongside singing allows babies to associate signs with words, reinforcing language comprehension and expression. 

2. Long-term Benefits 

   
   

Singing along to nursery rhymes has been shown to support speech development. Since Signalong combines spoken words with signs, it reinforces language learning in multiple ways. By integrating both singing and signing into daily routines, parents can create a rich, supportive environment that nurtures their child’s overall growth and development. 

3. Strengthening Parent-child Bond 

   
   

Signalong for Babies classes provide a fun and relaxed environment where parents can learn 106 signs over the 8-week course alongside Nursery Rhymes with their baby/babies. This shared activity not only improves communication but also deepens the emotional connection between parents and children. Kirsty, Signalong for Babies Trainer who taught her daughter Signalong said: “My daughter's enjoyment of learning signs to support her communication before speech was evident and we had many 'conversations' before she could talk. 

4. Emotional Expression and Social Skills 

   
   

Singing nursery rhymes with signs helps babies express themselves before they can speak, while also learning social skills like turn-taking and reading facial expressions. Gestures like ‘crocodile’ and ‘star’ support these skills by combining movement, emotion, and shared attention. 

An online Signalong for Babies course with qualified Trainer, Tracy Goode.

How can Signalong for Babies help you? 

Every baby is unique and develops at their own pace, but did you know babies can sign back as early as six months? Learning Signalong for Babies before speech develops can help you better understand your baby’s needs and wants. We have Trainers located across the UK ready to help you and your baby learn Signalong for Babies. View our list of Trainers here. 

Have a question? 

Email training@signalongforbabies.org.uk to find out more about training and Signalong for Babies.