Parental perception of a baby sign workshop on stress and parent–child interaction

Abstract

Introduction: Baby sign language is gaining in popularity. However, research has indicated a lack of empirical research supporting its use. In addition, research suggests that baby sign training may increase stress levels in parents. Methods: Nine families with children ranging in age from six months to two years; five months participated in a baby sign workshop. Survey data were analysed to determine parental stress levels as a result of the workshop or using signs with their children. Additionally, information from parents regarding parent-child interactions was recorded. Results: The data suggests that the use of baby signs enhanced parent-child communication, strengthened the parent-child bond, and reduced frustration. Furthermore, the data indicated that the use of baby signs with infants did not cause increased stress on parents. Key aspects of baby sign training that seem to reduce and inhibit stress in parents are discussed. Background and significanceBaby signing has become a new trend among parents, but has gained little attention among researchers. Although there is much information available through poplar media such as television and the internet, there is little empirical evidence supporting its use. The current study seeks to add to the evidence base on baby signs, thereby extending the limited amount of scientific data related to the subject.

Symbolic gesturing: creating opportunities for emotional connections between practitioners and infants in day care

“…However, the parents attending such classes were perceived to have possible pre-existing levels of stress and therefore any approach could be reported as stressful with some parents. In a smaller scale study Mueller and Sepulveda (2014) noted that the stress levels in nine families attending infant signing workshops did not increase. They concluded infant signing workshops had beneficial results, such as enhanced interactions, communication and increased bonding experiences between parents and their infants.…”

“…Using SG seems to have facilitated a similar bonding process between practitioner and infant (Bowlby, 1997). Having an atmosphere that was stress free when introducing SG in a fun and relaxed way was important in its successful implementation in enhancing bonds between infant and practitioner (Kirk and Pine, 2010;Mueller and Sepulveda, 2014).…”

اتجاهات آباء وأمهات الأطفال الصم وضعاف السمع نحو لغة الإشارة

“…‫د‬ ‫د‬ ‫د‬ ‫اللإل‬ ‫د‬ ‫د‬ ‫د‬ ‫ال(‬ ‫م‬ (Bailes, 2009, Niparko, 2010 (Mueller, & Sepulveda, 2014,Pizer et al, 2007 . (Epstein,2005, Haines, & Childs,2005, Sarant, & Garrard,2013 .…”