Sign Language

Sign language is the use of hand and body movements to communicate. It includes hand movements for entire words or phrases and finger positions for each letter of the alphabet.

Sign language may help children who are not able to pronounce words clearly or who are hearing impaired. A qualified professional teaches sign language.

Teaching a child sign language does not delay a child's ability to talk if she or he is able to learn to talk.

Credits

By: Healthwise StaffLast Revised: July 20, 2011
Medical Review: Susan C. Kim, MD - Pediatrics
Louis Pellegrino, MD - Developmental Pediatrics

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