"All Done"

I think I mentioned in a previous posting that Mya likes to throw her food onto the floor. After careful observations, Matt and I decided that she typically did this when she was all done with her meal. It was her way (her OCD way) of cleaning off her tray so we would know she didn't want to eat anymore. Although this wasn't the end of the world at home, it was pretty embarrassing when we go out to eat at a restaurant or someone else's home. I had to think of a way to stop, or at least minimize this behavior.

I have heard of people teaching their babies sign language. I know that a popular sign is for "more" so that babies don't scream out for more food. I did some research and found the sign for "all done." I started doing the sign with the words, "all done" at the end of every meal or snack. When she would start to throw the food, I would say "NO!" and then do the sign. At first she looked at me like I was completely insane. Why is Momma waving her hands like a moron? BUT.... THEN.... she did it! She didn't throw her food. Instead, she did the sign or at least her interpretation of the sign. I wasn't sure if she really knew what she was doing. So I tried to put more food into her mouth. She gently pushed my hand away and again did the sign. OH MY GOSH! I know it's not like I taught her how to perform brain surgery, but it was awesome to see that she actually had learned something that I taught her! She does still occasionally throw a piece of cheese, noodle, or grape. I think she still likes to see me reaction! We are working on rewarding her for signing. I am so proud of my little communicator! Matt and I smile everytime she does it! We think she may just be a genius! Are we biased?


Mya signing after her afternoon snack.....