Sign Language Use for Deaf, Hard of Hearing and Hearing Babies

Early language access shapes every area of a child's development — and sign language offers the earliest possible entry point, regardless of hearing status. This research summary draws on a broad body of evidence to show that sign language supports communication, cognitive development, literacy, and academic achievement while posing no risk to spoken language acquisition. For deaf and hard of hearing children especially, it provides the only fully accessible path to natural language learning in the critical early years. An essential read for families, educators, and early intervention professionals making language decisions for young children.