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Sign Language and International Adoption

Sign language is a great tool for anyone pursuing an international adoption, providing parents with an easier way of communication during those early days and easing frustration for their child.



baby signing

About Sign Language

Using this method of communication is much easier for small children, because speaking requires a complex use of facial muscles including the formation of lips, the use of the tongue and controlling of vocal chords, among others. Signing is a much simpler process.

Orphans and Language Development

While some orphans do live in foster homes before they are adopted, a vast majority of children adopted internationally are initially raised in orphanages. These include children adopted from countries like China, Eastern Europe, Latin America and other third world countries. Developmental delays are common for these children.

Many, if not all, of these children have delayed social interaction skills, according to the Center for Adoption Medicine. This delay in speech is not simply because they are learning a new language, but rather because they did not get the stimulation they needed at the orphanage.

Ready to Learn to Sign?

Visit Babies and Sign Language to start learning how you can sign with your child.


It doesn't matter how good the workers in an orphanage are; putting a small number of adults in charge of a large group of small children means each child does not get the stimulation he or she needs. Babies and small children who spend little time around older children or adults won't be able to develop the language skills they need.

So these children have a hard time speaking in their native tongue as it is, and then they have to learn a new language, making things even tougher. Considering the frustration they must face, is it any wonder that many of these children will act out by throwing tantrums, aggressive behavior and even injuring themselves?

So how can you help ease the frustration your newly adopted child is experiencing? Enter sign language, a far easier way for small children to communicate and a way to gap the communication bridge between you and your child.

A Powerful Tool in Developing Language

According to the American Sign Language University, sign language will help children learn to speak more quickly and is a boon for children with autism and Down syndrome. By easing your children's frustration and meeting their needs quickly, you strengthen the bond between you and your child.

Also, being able to communicate by signing helps in situations where your child is sick, hurt or has other needs.


More Information on Raising Adopted Children

Are you single and thinking about adopting? It can be tough to be a kid raised by a single parent, but there are also advantages to being a single parent.

Adopted children who are now grown can tell us a lot about how to raise an adopted child. Here are some tips.

The first time you hold that precious child in your arms, you may be tempted to protect her from every conceivable harm. But that may not be the best thing for her. Here are some reasons to avoid helicopter parenting.

Although it is rare, there are failed international adoptions. Learn the warning signs before it is too late by reading this article.

When celebrities like Madonna are raising adopted children, it has an impact on international adoption for both good and ill. Learn how.

Learning about adoption does not have to be a major or traumatic issue for your child. Learn some useful tips on telling her about her adoption here.

Good parenting skills are something most adoptive parents are thinking about while on their international adoption journey. We truly appreciate these precious children and want to raise them the best way we know how. Read more.

Raising adopted children through a permissive parenting style is an easy trap for adoptive parents to fall into, but if you choose to parent your child without rules both you and your child will suffer for it. Read more.

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