Dear family, friends, and anyone else who cares enough to read this post:
I have a 2 1/2 year old child who does not talk yet. John and I decided we would teach him sign language so we could communicate with him. We researched baby sign language. I didn't know much sign language. But I knew we needed to do something to lower our frustration levels at not being able to communicate.
Some of you may worry that he will never talk. I have full confidence that he will use verbal language. But what if, despite all the research, he never talks?
This is a question that we have visited more than once. This is a question that I don't want to think about, but is a concern. I'm not concerned for me and my own children. All of us have embraced the sign language and even my 4 year old can communicate with the 2 year old. I thank the Lord every day for these tender mercies. So my concern lies with those around me who are unwilling to learn the simple signs my son uses.
Frustration should not need to reign. I am willing to interpret when I'm around, and I'm willing to teach you the signs he knows. Don't worry about always getting it right. I don't always get it right. Sometimes I ask him multiple times to repeat so I can figure it out. A lot of his conversations depend on the context. Some days he will be playing with the dog and will tell me the dog licked his face. Then he'll go back for more. He'll come back to me signing "more." So I then ask, "oh, did Angel lick your face more?" As he shakes his head yes, I know we both understood each other. It is pure joy to know we have that ability to communicate with each other.
I can't say it is easy. I can't say that we picked it up fast. My other children picked it up faster than me and they have taught me in the process. I have learned that I have the capacity to do this. I just have to be willing to try. I want everyone who interacts with my son to know the joy of understanding his language. Please learn with him and support him in his efforts to communicate with you. Just because he doesn't talk doesn't mean there is anything wrong with him. He's just taking his time and enjoying the ride.
Long story short, we will continue working with him and using sign language. It is an effective method of communication and he enjoys being understood. My desire is that all those around us will take the time to understand him too and experience the joy I have felt being able to communicate with my son.
With love,
Jessica
