Tiny Hands Signs

🌟 Child Of Deaf Adult 🌟

A CODA (Child of Deaf Adult) is a hearing person who has one or more Deaf parents. 2 for me🙋🏽‍♀️

Most CODAs grow up using both spoken language and sign language (such as Auslan in Australia), often becoming fluent in both from a young age.

We are commonly exposed to Deaf culture from birth, while also navigating the hearing world — giving us a unique bicultural and bilingual experience.
Many CODAs take on informal interpreting roles for their parents in everyday situations, especially as children, although this responsibility can vary between families.

Being a CODA isn’t the same for everyone, but it often involves:
• Strong communication and adaptability skills
• Early exposure to accessibility barriers
• A close connection to the Deaf community and culture

CODA is also a recognised identity within the Deaf community, not just a description.

I, for one, am very proud to be a CODA 🤟🏼

🌟1- 3 signs to begin with 🌟

When starting out, it’s best not to overwhelm your little one with too many signs at once. Begin with a few key signs that are useful in everyday situations.

1. Pick Everyday Signs: Focus on signs for basic needs and common items like “more,” “milk,” “eat,” “finish,” “please,” and “thank you.” These signs are immediately relevant and will help your child communicate their needs.

2. Use Consistent Signs: Integrate these signs into your daily routine so your child can connect the sign with its meaning.

3. Expand Gradually: Once your child is familiar with the initial signs, slowly introduce more based on their interests and needs. This helps prevent confusion and keeps learning engaging.

4. Be Patient and Encouraging: Learning a new language takes time. Celebrate progress and offer encouragement to make the experience positive and motivating.

This also correlates with why we release one sign per week, as to give our parents the opportunity to focus on a sign and not get overwhelmed themselves 😉

Happy signing! 👏🏼💙

🌟 Benefits 🌟

Teaching young children Auslan, offers numerous benefits that extend beyond just communication.

1. Enhanced Communication Skills: Learning Auslan can boost a child’s ability to express themselves clearly and effectively. It promotes better understanding of non-verbal communication, which is crucial for all forms of interaction.

2. Cognitive Development: Mastering a new language, including sign languages, stimulates cognitive processes and enhances problem-solving skills. It encourages kids to think in diverse ways and improve their memory.

3. Social Inclusion: Introducing Auslan fosters inclusivity and empathy. It helps children understand and respect the Deaf community, promoting a more inclusive society.

4. Improved Concentration: Learning and using sign language requires focus and coordination. This can enhance a child’s ability to concentrate and follow instructions in various settings.

5. Emotional Expression: Auslan provides an additional avenue for children to express their emotions, especially for those who might find verbal communication challenging.

Overall, teaching Auslan enriches a child’s linguistic skills, promotes cognitive and social development, and nurtures a more inclusive mindset. What more could you want 👏🏼

A huge pat on the back to you wonderful parents encouraging this with your little ones 💙👏🏼

🌟 AUSLAN 🌟

Here in Australia our Sign Language is recognised as Auslan (Australian Sign Language). Auslan was developed by and for Australians who are Deaf or Hearing Impaired. It is a visual form of communication that uses hand movements, gestures, facial expressions and body language.

Happy Signing!💙

🌟 Start ‘em young! 🌟

Teaching little ones Auslan from an early age opens up a world of communication and understanding. Research shows early exposure enhances language skills and fosters empathy.

I personally signed words like milk, I love you and finish to my kids from birth however, you can start introducing signs when your little one is 4-6 months. Although they likely won’t start making their own signs till they’re about 6-9 months old.
Mummy was my son’s favourite at 8 months and more is my daughter’s at 9.

Happy Signing 💙