How to build signing into your daily routine

Introducing baby signing into your everyday life doesn’t need to be time-consuming or overwhelming. In fact, the key to success is weaving signs naturally into your daily routine. By consistently pairing signs with words and activities, you’ll help your baby learn to communicate while strengthening your bond. Here’s how to get started and make signing part of your day-to-day life.

1. Start Small and Build Gradually

It’s easy to feel excited and want to teach your baby every sign at once, but starting small is more effective. Choose a few essential signs that match your baby’s immediate needs, such as:

• Milk

• More

• All done

• Nappy

• Sleep

Once your baby starts responding to these signs, you can gradually introduce more, expanding their signing vocabulary.

2. Sign During Mealtimes

Mealtimes are ideal for signing because they happen multiple times a day and involve clear, repetitive actions. Use signs like “eat,” “drink,” “more,” “all gone,” and specific food names. For example, if your baby is eating a banana, say and sign “banana” as you offer it to them. Repetition will help reinforce the connection.

3. Integrate Signing Into Playtime

Play is an engaging way to practice signing while making it fun for your child.

• Use animal signs while playing with toys or reading books.

• Introduce colour signs when building with blocks or mark making.

• Sign ‘more’ or ‘again’ as you roll a ball back and to.

Play is naturally interactive, making it an excellent opportunity to reinforce signs.

4. Sign During Care Routines

Everyday care routines provide predictable moments to introduce signs:

• Bath time: Use signs like “bath,” “water,” “clean,” and “duck.”

• Getting dressed: Teach clothing-related signs such as “jumper,” “socks,” and “shoes.”

• Bedtime: Introduce signs like “sleep,” and “book,” to create a soothing bedtime ritual.

5. Use Signs in Context

The best way to teach a sign is to use it in the context of the activity. For example, sign “car” while pointing to one during a walk or sign “bird” when you see one in the park. Context helps your baby make connections faster.

6. Sing and Sign

Children love music, and signing along to songs is a fun way to learn. Use simple nursery rhymes and songs that include repetitive words and actions.

7. Be Consistent

Consistency is crucial when introducing signing. Pair signs with spoken words regularly, and be patient—it may take time for your baby to start signing back, but they’re always watching and learning.

8. Celebrate Progress

When your baby uses a sign correctly, celebrate it! Offer praise, repeat the sign, and acknowledge what they’re communicating. Positive reinforcement encourages them to continue using signs to express themselves.

9. Involve the Whole Family

Signing isn’t just for parents! Encourage siblings, grandparents, and other caregivers to use signs, too. The more exposure your baby has, the faster they’ll learn.

10. Keep It Fun and Relaxed

The goal of signing is to make communication easier and more enjoyable, not to add stress. Keep the experience lighthearted and playful—your enthusiasm will inspire your baby to engage.

Final Thoughts

Incorporating signing into your daily routine is simple, rewarding, and incredibly effective. By making it a natural part of your day, you’ll open the door to early communication, reduce frustration, and strengthen your connection with your child. Remember, every sign you teach is a step towards empowering your baby to share their world with you—so enjoy the journey together!

Ready to start signing? Pick a few key signs today and watch how quickly they become part of your daily rhythm.