• Start signing to your child as a baby. You can start as early as six months. Once they sign and understand some basic words such as “more,” “eat,” and “all done,” then introduce “please,” “thank you” and “share.” You can start teaching first word signs as early as six months of age.

• Use every opportunity to teach the importance of being well-mannered. With most young kids eating three meals and two snacks by 12-months of age, there will be plenty of practice.

• Say and sign “please” and “thank you” when talking to others in your world – your husband, relatives, friends, etc. – so your children will witness and value what you’re teaching them. Ask caregivers to join in as well.

• Praise, practice and patience.

By Lindy Bartell, president of Smarty Parents, Inc., the maker of the award-winning Piggy Platter placemat & craftmat and the creator of Perry & Penny’s manners-minded books and music. Sign language information brought to you by Sign Babies. This article may only be used with the expressed written permission of the author.