hide-n-(sensory)-seeking

So way back in April, in this nearly-never-ending-post I mentioned that Kit used to hum and sing a lot. Pretty much every day, until she just sort of stopped. That was...sadder than sad. But! She seems to enjoy surprising us. So, just in the last couple of days, guess what I've been hearing? A lot of this:   And by a lot, I mean all throughout the days and evenings. When she's walking, jumping, spinning, eating, playing, or laying, she's all the while humming or outright singing! She obviously understands what she's saying even if we don't! It's crazy ADORABLE! And I am ridiculously excited to have my Music Major back at the pipes!!

"How many signs do you think she knows now? A couple dozen?"   A good friend asked when we finally were able to get together after several months of crazy summertime life.   "Probably close to two hundred, if not more, actually."   Wow! Even I am astounded by her amazing capacity to see and remember so many signs. Even when she can't yet fully perform them.   Long before she lost her spoken words, I had taught her several basic signs. More, please, eat, all done.   Right about the time that it was clear that her words were not making their way back of their own accord just yet, my sister loaned us a baby sign language video.   It quickly became Kit's favorite, and though it took her several weeks to start to use the signs herself, when we used them, she clearly understood and would smile in agreement, or shake her head if it was not to her liking.   To my grateful surprise, our local library also had both seasons of...

"More."   This is the first sign I have taught all my children, including ones who weren't mine, but spent time in my care.   This sign is a priceless tool to a baby. It is one of the most powerful gifts a parent or caregiver can bestow. Especially, since babies develop control of thier hands much earlier than the numerous muscles required for speech. But their minds develop even earlier! They can understand even sooner.   That one little word lays a foundation for back and forth conversation. Reduces both the child's as well as the caregiver's frustration. And it teaches the child that there is a way to communicate that allows him/her to remain more in control emotionally. This is very important because no one really likes to feel out of control.   °°°   Have you ever lost your voice? Did it make you feel somewhat insecure? Or even occasionally panicky?   Likely, you were able to make your needs known through writing, texting, or ...