The #1 mistake parents make in baby sign language (and how to fix it)
Baby sign language is one of the most powerful tools for early communication. It strengthens your bond with your child, reduces frustration, and supports emotional development—even before your baby can speak.
But there’s one sign that most parents start with…
And it’s the one sign I always recommend avoiding.
Let’s talk about why teaching the sign “MORE” might be the biggest baby sign language mistake—and what to do instead.
Why “More” Isn’t the Best First Sign for Babies
If you search “baby sign language,” you’ll see the sign “More” everywhere. It’s promoted in blogs, YouTube videos, and parent groups as the first sign to teach.
It seems simple. Easy to do. And it gets results.
But here’s the problem: it doesn’t build real communication.
When your baby signs “More,” what are they really saying?
More milk?
More music?
More playtime?
More of what?
You’re left guessing—and your baby is left frustrated. That’s not what sign language is meant to do.
Why “More” Can Delay Language Development
I meet so many families worried that their child isn’t talking yet. When I ask if they’re using sign language, they often say yes. But when I ask which signs? It’s usually just “More.”
That’s a red flag.
“More” becomes a shortcut for everything. And when babies learn that one vague sign gets them whatever they want, they don’t need to learn specific words. That means fewer signs, slower speech development, and missed opportunities for connection.
Signing should help your baby express what they really want. “More” doesn’t do that. It only creates a guessing game.
What To Sign Instead
If you’re just starting your baby sign language journey, begin with signs that are:
Tangible – objects they can see or touch
Specific – so you understand them clearly
Relatable – part of their daily routine
Here are great first signs to teach:
Milk
Water
Music
Mommy
Daddy
Ball
Eat
Sleep
These signs tell you exactly what your baby wants—and help you respond with confidence.
Signing Is About Connection
Baby sign language is more than gestures. It’s communication with meaning.
When your baby signs “Milk” and you hand them milk, they learn something powerful:
“I can express myself. I am understood.”
This is what we teach in every SignShine™ e-course. Our approach is about real communication, not just repeating popular signs. We focus on building a language your baby can use with confidence—and you can understand with clarity.
Your Turn
Have you taught your baby to sign “More”? Did it work for you—or create more confusion?
What was your baby’s first sign? How did it change the way you connect?
We’d love to hear your story. Leave a comment and join our SignShine™ parent community—where we grow together, one sign at a time.
Ready to Start Signing with Purpose?
Our online baby sign language courses are designed to help you skip the confusion and create meaningful communication from day one.
Let’s build connection, confidence, and calm—one sign at a time.
Let the SignShine!