Sign language is often something that we as parents ignore. There is a stigma attached I think that says it's only for the hearing impaired. Sorry to burst your bubble on this - every parent and every child can benefit from learning to sign - and not because they can communicate with the hearing impaired.

In fact, by learning to sign with your baby, you will learn to communicate at much earlier age. Babies use sign language all the time - we just don't understand it. True, it is very basic and often involves pointing more than anything else - but it is a form of sign language.

I use it too. I noticed yesterday with my six year old. She was creating problems with her sisters - I just pointed to her room - she understood what and why! Again, it is very basic. The question then is whether or not you can build that into a fully fledged sign language routine. You can and it isn't that hard.

For those really interested in baby sign language - I suggest you visit Australia's leading proponent, Jackie Durnin at Australian Baby Hands. She has created resources (including a free wall chart) based on Auslan that can get you started in the use of baby sign language. There are also classes held around Australia that can help you to learn to sign effectively.

Visit the site and watch the video - you will be amazed at how well a youngster can communicate. One reason that two year olds throw tantrums is because of the frustrations caused by their inability to communicate what they want to us. Sign language breaks through that barrier and reduces that frustration. It also reduces the frequency of tantrums.

If you're in Australia and you're looking for a new career - consider taking on a Baby Hands Institute franchise. It is a challenging career move that may not make you millions. However, the rewards are in the results and there will be plenty of them.

See related articles on Australian Baby Hands:

Using Sign Language with Toddlers:
Why I signed with my baby