What is Signalong for Babies?

Signalong for Babies was created by Signalong, The Communication Charity after it was inundated with requests for a recognised, consistent method of producing signs using Signalong, for Babies. Signalong for Babies follows the same methodology as Signalong, focusing on key elements such as handshape, orientation, placement, and movement, ensuring consistency and accessibility for all learners and users.

By giving your baby the tools to express their wants and needs before they can speak, you reduce frustration and build a stronger emotional bond. If you later discover your child has an identified speech, language, or communication need, you’ve already laid the foundation for an Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) system, giving them a head start.

What Are the Benefits of Signing with Your Baby?

You can start using signs with your baby from birth, as part of your everyday interactions.  While most babies won't start signing back until they're around six months old, they're already absorbing and learning the association long before that. By using Signalong for Babies, you can reduce frustration and start to understand and address your babies needs and wants. 

1. Enhanced communication

   Signing helps your baby express their needs and wants before they’re able to speak

   
   

2. Strengthen Parent-Child Bond

   Signing together encourages meaningful interaction and creates a deeper emotional connection between you and your baby.

   
   

3. Supports Cognitive Development

   Early exposure to signing can stimulate your baby's brain development.

   
   

4. Reduced Frustration

   Signing enables them to show you what they want rather than you guessing, reducing frustration for both you and your baby.

What’s Covered in a Signalong for Babies Course?

Our qualified Signalong for Babies Trainers have been trained to deliver 106 signs and Nursery Rhymes identified as the most appropriate for babies aged 9 – 18 months old. Signs include: Mummy, Daddy, Dummy, Toilet, Milk, and more. The course offers a safe and relaxed space for parents and babies to bond and meet other parents and children. The courses are delivered over 8 weeks and follow a structured session plan which your Trainer will guide you through. Each session begins with a short relaxation activity to help calm your baby and prepare their hands for signing. And there’s always time for a cuppa and a chat at the end, giving parents and carers space to connect, share, and ask questions. View our Signalong for Babies Trainer here. 

Want To Find Out More About Becoming a Trainer?

Anyone can become a Signalong for Babies Trainer. All you need to do is attend a two-day online Signalong Training Course to become certified.

Email training@signalongforbabies.org.uk to find out more and discuss upcoming training dates. Want to know what's included in our Training course? We recently ran an online Training Course which we recorded and edited to provide you with an overview on what's included in the course. Watch the video here.

Get In Touch

To find out more about Signalong for Babies, Signalong, and how it could help your family, please get in touch.