Should I use baby sign language, and does it delay speech?

Research consistently shows that baby sign language does NOT delay spoken language — in fact, it may support it. Signs give pre-verbal toddlers a way to communicate basic needs (milk, more, all done, help), which reduces frustration and tantrums. Most children naturally drop signs as their spoken vocabulary grows. Start with 5–10 functional signs around 8–12 months. Use the sign AND the spoken word simultaneously, every time. Be consistent and patient — it may take weeks before your child signs back. Popular programs include Baby Signs and ASL-based approaches. Even a few signs can dramatically improve communication and reduce behavioral issues in the 12–24 month period. If your toddler relies heavily on signs past age 2 and spoken words are not emerging, consult your pediatrician about a speech-language evaluation.