More

Even before Munch had arrived we had decided we would give baby signing a whirl and see where it took us.  There were the opinions that it would help him communicate before he verbally grasped words and then those that thought it may hinder his actual speech development.  Anyway, we made our decision and stuck to it after careful consideration.

Since attending various parent and baby sessions,  Munch and I have both been subjected to the odd sign here and there.  The only ones that really stick with me are the ones we use a lot of; more; yes; no; finished; yoghurt; drink; hello; and story.  I did get two books from the library just the other week to add more signs to our vocabulary but never really ended up paying them much attention.  Munch hadn't given any indication of understanding anything I had been doing for the last four months; he had begun babbling more and more so I wondered if he would be an early talker instead.

Friday lunchtime.  Munch and I are sat at the dining table having our lunch together as usual.  He had eaten what was in front of him and had stopped; I looked at him and he signed "more".  Obviously I gave him more food but in that moment I was proud, amazed and emotional.  Yes he babbles away from the second he wakes in a morning but we have no idea what he is trying to say to us.  This one little sign showed that he understood and so did I.  As soon as we'd finished eating I was straight on the phone to let Sprout know of the new development; Daddy was very proud too.

The pressure was on Munch to show Daddy come tea time.  The anticipation was immense as often Munch would do something once and then not do it again for a few days.  Munch settled into his roast chicken dinner with enthusiasm then came the signing, "more", "more", "more".  Excitement that he had actually grasped a sign, smiles and praise from us for our genius little boy.  The repetition and persisting with it had worked after all.  It was the incentive I needed to continue learning and using signs with him.

Trust his first sign to be "more" for "more food".  He really does show a love for his food just as his parents do; that's our son for you!