Baby Sign Language Chart
Use this baby sign language chart for meals, diaper changes, bath time, bedtime, family moments, feelings, and play. Pair the chart with videos so you can see each sign move.
How to use a baby sign language chart
A chart is a reminder, not the whole lesson. Put it where routines happen, choose three to five signs, say the word while signing, and use the same sign every time the meaning appears.
Use video before introducing a new sign. ASL signs include movement, handshape, location, palm orientation, and facial expression. A still chart helps you remember what to practice, while the app and dictionary help you see how the sign moves.
- Start with one routine. Meals, milk, diaper changes, bath, bedtime, and books are easy places to repeat signs.
- Model without pressure. Your child may understand signs before signing back clearly.
- Respond to the message. Early signs may be approximate. Treat attempts as communication.
- Keep caregivers consistent. Share the same chart with grandparents, daycare staff, and siblings.
Baby sign language chart by routine
| Routine | Useful baby signs | When to model them | Next guide |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mealtime | More, milk, eat, drink, all done, please, thank you. | Before offering food, while giving a cup, after a snack, or when a child asks for more. | Mealtime signs |
| Care routines | Help, diaper, change, potty, bath, stop, hurt. | Before diaper changes, while getting dressed, before bath time, or when your child needs support. | Diaper and bath signs |
| Bedtime | Sleep, tired, book, milk, bath, all done. | During naps, quiet time, story time, and bedtime transitions. | Bedtime signs |
| Family | Mom, dad, baby, friend. | When naming people in the room, photos, routines, and family greetings. | Signs by routine |
| Feelings | Hurt, happy, sad, scared, tired, help, break. | When labeling emotions calmly and helping a child communicate discomfort. | Feelings signs |
| Play | Play, book, ball, dog, again, all done. | During games, pet interactions, outside time, story time, and turn-taking. | Toddler signs |
Pick five signs
Start with more, milk, eat, all done, and help. Use them during real meals and care routines.
Add one routine
Add sleep, bath, diaper, book, or play after the first signs feel easy for adults to model.
Track attempts
Use the routine tracker to notice what your child watches, understands, points to, vocalizes, or signs.
Watch the chart signs in the app
The chart is a quick reference. The ASL Kids app shows the movement, handshape, and kid-friendly video examples for signs families use every day.
Helpful chart and practice materials
Affiliate disclosure: Some links below are affiliate links. ASL Kids may earn a commission if you buy through them, at no extra cost to you.
You can begin with the free chart guidance, tracker, app, and dictionary. If your family or daycare needs a physical reminder, choose one simple chart, card set, or book and keep practice tied to routines.
More baby sign resources
Trusted guidance
Use baby signs as part of a language-rich routine: talk, read, sing, point, gesture, sign, and respond. If you have concerns about hearing, speech, language, development, motor skills, feeding, or communication access, ask your pediatrician, audiologist, SLP, Deaf educator, or care team.
Baby sign language chart FAQ
What signs should be on a baby sign language chart?
A useful chart starts with everyday signs: more, milk, eat, drink, all done, help, sleep, bath, diaper, change, book, play, mom, dad, hurt, tired, and happy.
Do I need a printable baby sign language chart?
A printable chart can help caregivers remember which signs to model, but video practice is important for learning movement and handshape.
Where should I put the chart?
Put it where routines happen: near a feeding chair, changing area, bedtime basket, daycare cubby, or family command center.
How many signs should I practice first?
Start with three to five signs in one routine. Add more after adults are using the first signs consistently.
Is baby sign language the same as ASL?
Baby sign language usually uses selected ASL signs during baby and toddler routines. ASL is a full language with its own grammar, movement, facial expression, culture, and community.
Need printable ASL practice sheets?
Download the free ASL Kids Starter Pack for first signs, weekly lesson plans, baby-sign routines, classroom signs, family practice, and a 12-week planner.
Choosing a baby sign language app?
Start with the Baby Sign Language App page if you want the fastest ASL Kids download path, or use the Best Baby Sign Language Apps guide to compare ASL Kids, My Signing Time, Baby Sign and Learn, and parent-focused ASL app options.
Teaching ASL to preschoolers?
The ASL Course for Preschoolers guide helps parents and teachers choose an app-first routine path, preschool curriculum, adult course support, printables, and classroom materials without pushing a formal child course too early.