From Library Journal
After studying baby sign language with a grant from the National Institutes of Health, Acredelo (psychology, Univ. of California, Davis) and Goldwyn (psychology, California State Univ., Stanislaus) conclude that babies who are taught to use signs to express basic ideas (e.g., fingers to the lips for eat, fingers raised in a V for bunny) before they can say the words are both happier because they can communicate with others and more adept at speaking once they begin to acquire language. This is not a scholarly exegesis of their findings but a practical, easy-to-use guide to teaching baby signs. The authors begin with an explanation of their findings and then offer a portfolio of suggested signs in which simple pictures are accompanied by description, memory aid, and suggested situations for use. The book has an upbeat, encouraging tone that parents will appreciate. Interestingly, Parenting magazine cited the authors' study in the "News and Reviews" section of the May 1996 issue?but failed to mention this book! For all parenting collections.?Barbara Hoffert, "Library Journal"Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.


Book Description

The bestselling parenting guide featured on "Oprah" and "Dateline" is revised and updated with new signs

For every parent or caregiver who has struggled unsuccessfully to decode baby grunts and grabs, resulting in tearful frustration for both adult and child, there is Baby Signs. Based on 20 years of research, this one-of-a-kind classic shows you how to encourage your baby's use of nonverbal gestures to enhance communication. Simple hand movements signify objects, events, and needs, so your infant can enjoy interactions with you that otherwise would have been impossible until they could talk. New features of this revised edition include helpful tips on incorporating Baby Signs into the day care setting and more than 50 additional illustrated Baby Signs.


About the Author

Linda Acredolo, Ph.D., and Susan Goodwyn, Ph.D., both psychology professors, conducted their pioneering scientific research on the language and cognitive benefits of Baby Signing for the National Institutes of Health. They have shared their award-winning findings through national media, including appearances on "Dateline" and "Oprah." Dr. Acredolo is at the University of California, Davis. Dr. Goodwyn teaches at California State University, Stanislaus.

FROM OUR EDITORS

Most parents are aware of the little gestures their infant uses to express various needs and moods, such as hunger or delight. This revised edition of a classic parenting work shows parents how they can expand their baby's use of nonverbal signs, greatly enhancing communication long before the infant is able to speak. In addition to illustrating a host of basic signs -- such as those for feelings, daily activities, and favorite foods -- the book helps readers develop their own signs with their child. Baby Signs also highlights the benefits of this method of communication, which include increased verbal and cognitive skills.

FROM THE PUBLISHER

All parents eagerly await the day their babies can tell them what they need, feel, and think. Thanks to Baby Signs, this no longer means waiting until babies can talk. All babies have the potential to learn simple, easy-to-remember Baby Signs, such as tapping fingertips together for "more" or touching fingertips to mouth for "hungry." Now your baby can join the hundreds of thousands of babies around the world who are using Baby Signs. Child development experts Linda Acredolo, Ph.D., and Susan Goodwyn, Ph.D., discovered Baby Signs in 1982. After two decades of research, Acredolo and Goodwyn have found that babies whose parents introduce them to Baby Signs learn to talk sooner, have fewer tantrums, get a jump start on their intellectual development, express emotions effectively, and develop stronger bonds with their parents. Baby Signs are as easy to learn as waving "bye-bye" and offer you a priceless window into your child's mind. The memories for you and the benefits for your baby will last a lifetime.

FROM THE CRITICS

Library Journal