Researchers have discovered that gesture is an integral part of language—it forms a unified system with speech and, as such, plays a role in processing and learning language and other cognitive skills.

Are gestures part of language?

Gestures in language acquisition are a form of non-verbal communication involving movements of the hands, arms, and/or other parts of the body. ... Gestures not only complement language development but also enhance the child's ability to communicate.

Do gestures count as words?

Gestures are an important marker for language development and a precursor to words. Typically developing toddlers begin to use gestures just before they learn to talk. Many times, a baby will make sounds intentionally and begin to produce a few early word approximations as he's using a gesture.