How Does Signing Reduce Frustration in Babies?

Have you ever watched a baby trying to communicate, only to burst into tears when no one understands what they want? That’s frustration, and it’s something all babies experience before they can speak. Fortunately, signing with your baby can change that. 

By giving babies the tools to express themselves before they can talk, signing reduces frustration for both baby and adult, and builds a stronger connection in the process. 

Babies typically develop the motor skills needed for making hand signs before the skills needed for speech. 

Signalong for Babies Course Attendees learning signs

Why Do Babies Get Frustrated? 

Babies are full of needs, wants, and feelings, just like adults. But unlike adults, they don’t yet have the ability to form words to express them. Around 6 to 18 months, a baby’s understanding of language often outpaces their ability to speak. They know what they want, but they can’t say it. This communication gap is where frustration lives. A hungry baby who can’t say “milk” may cry or throw a tantrum if they are offered something else, causing confusion and upset for both parent and child. 

Signalong For Babies 

Babies learn by observing and mimicking what happens during interactions. They pick up signs through repetition, especially when the signs are used regularly alongside everyday actions and objects. Babies can sign back as early as 6 months old, when signing is used regularly. 

Signalong for Babies Course Attendees learning signs

Teaching your baby Signalong enables them to have a voice and communicate before they can form words to speak. During a Signalong for Babies class, you’ll learn 106 key signs including, “milk,” “more,” “bed,” “mummy,” “daddy,” and “dummy”, helping babies to express themselves clearly and calmly. The result? Less guesswork, fewer tears, and more confident communication. 

When asked about how Signalong for Babies has helped their child, a happy parent commented: ‘My son has been growing increasingly frustrated, both with his toys and his carers, prior to the introduction of signing. After only six signing sessions, he can now ask for the food/activities he wants.’ 

Interested in learning Signalong for Babies 

We have several Signalong for Babies Trainers located across the UK, ready to help you and your baby communicate better. View our Trainers here and enquire about a course today.  

Email training@signalongforbabies.org.uk to find out more.