First Signs — A Quick Guide to Baby Sign Language | 20 Core Signs, Fridge Chart & Flashcards | Printable PDF

First Signs — A Quick Guide to Baby Sign Language

Little hands have so much to say — long before words arrive. This sweet, simple guide teaches you 20 core baby signs, step by step, so your baby can tell you milk, more, eat, all done, help — and so many more — months before they can say them out loud. Less frustration for baby, more of those heart-melting "she told me what she wanted!" moments for you.

What's inside (9 pages):

• Why families love signing: less frustration, earlier "conversations," and beautiful face-to-face bonding
• How to start in five easy steps — begin around 6 months with just 3–5 starter signs, sign and say the word every time, and celebrate every wobbly try
• 20 core signs taught step by step, each with a clear written how-to (handshape, hand position, and movement) and a note on when to use it — starter signs like Milk, More, Eat, All Done, Mama, and Dada, plus everyday signs like Please, Thank You, Help, Sleep, Book, Play, and Hurt
• A one-page fridge chart with all 20 signs, so every caregiver can join in
• Cut-apart flashcards for playtime practice
• A "My Baby's First Signs" keepsake tracker — record the day your baby signs back for the first time
• Troubleshooting for when baby isn't signing back yet or invents a version of their own
• A short, honest supplies checklist headlined the truth: you need almost nothing — most of it is already in your home

Print-at-home details: Instant digital download — 1 PDF, 9 pages, US Letter (8.5" × 11"), designed at 300 DPI for crisp home printing. Print the fridge chart and flashcards on card stock if you can, and slip them into page protectors or laminating pouches for drool-proofing. No physical item will be shipped.

Please note: This guide is for general information and encouragement only and is not medical, developmental, or professional advice. Every child is different. Please talk with your child's pediatrician (or other qualified professional) about your child's individual needs, and seek prompt care if you are ever concerned. Signs shown are common ASL-based baby signs presented for everyday parent-child communication; this is an introduction, not a formal ASL course.

From Casey's Children's Collective — start small, sign often, and keep it fun.

How to get your files: After checkout, tap the download link on your confirmation page or in your order email. Your file opens right away — tap the download arrow at the top to save it, or print it straight from that screen (US Letter, print at 100%). Lost your link? It's always in your order email.