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Benefits of Baby Signing         Every parent’s wish is to give their baby the best possible start in life and the use of sign language, when used in conjunction with speech, has so many benefits. Any concerns that the use of signing with hearing babies might delay speech development have been proven unfounded by Acredolo and Goodwyn’s research. In fact, it has been shown that speech is improved and development is enhanced. Most parents do not begin signing with their baby with the intention of increasing their IQ however. The fundamental benefits are that:- Your baby can learn to express a need or desire long before they can speak. You can understand the thought processes of your baby and can fulfil the need / desire promptly, thus reducing the crying, tantrums and frustration for both of you. Your baby increases in self confidence. You form a close communication bond extremely early with your baby which is a delight for both of you. Your baby is encouraged to use their arms and hands to perform signs, thus honing gross and fine motor skills which might not be utilised so fully at only 6 – 10 months in a non signing baby. Your baby is learning to watch closely and imitate gestures, thus developing cognitive skills as well. You are helping your child to develop a wider vocabulary and encouraging them to enjoy reading and singing with you. You may be helping to increase your child’s IQ.