American Sign Language in the Early Childhood Classroom
As I was researching different options for curricula to use in my classrooms, I repeatedly came across articles touting the benefits of teaching young children American Sign Language, and was intrigued by the possibilities. I decided early on in the planning process for my new program to include ASL as part of our curriculum for the children in our program, starting with infants as young as 4 months old.
I conducted extensive online research and centered my focus on a program offered by Sign2Me called the Northlight Childcare Advantage Program. This program was developed to provide resources, tools and support to child care programs that recognized the benefits obtained by incorporating an ASL program into their regular curricula. I was excited to connect with Suzette Garay, owner of Baby Signs 4 U in Waukesha, who was able to give me more information about the program and answer all my questions. She showed me the different resources that were included with the program, explained the on-going training and support that was offered, and I ended up purchasing the entire program before I left her office!
Suzette came to Apple Ridge Academy last night and conducted the initial training for our staff, and everyone was extremely excited! She did a great job showing us how to make signing part of our everyday activities, and stressed the importance of making it fun. The staff were motivated and excited, especially when they were able to see all the resources available to them. Suzette will be returning after the staff have been using ASL in their classrooms for a month or so, and will teach them how to take the next step in incorporating ASL in their classrooms with songs and games.
Research shows examples of amazing benefits to teaching young children sign language. Below are a few facts that encouraged me to explore further:
* Signing enhances early language skills because children can engage in two-way conversations with their teachers and peers at an earlier age. It also reinforces verbal language by adding visual and kinesthetic emphasis to auditory input.
* Research shows that babies who sign usually start to talk sooner and develop larger vocabularies than non-signing babies.
* The use of signs in the classroom creates opportunities for children with special needs to interact in a more meaningful way with other children.
* Children use signs to help them understand and identify their emotions, and helps reduce frustration.
* Children use signs to solve problems. "STOP" and "SHARE" are commonly used signs that help children learn to get along with one another.
* Integrating the use of sign language into a preschool curriculum enhances literacy skills needed for school success: reading, vocabulary and spelling. A summary of this research can be found in Marilyn Daniels' book Dancing with Words.
Another aspect that is particularly exciting for me, is the opportunity to involve parents and families, and to create another home-school connection. Communication, in any and all forms, is a critical aspect of promoting a positive environment where children can grow and excel!
For additional information regarding:
* ASL classes for children, contact Suzette Garay at www.babysigns4u.com.
* ASL research and resources, check out www.sign2me.com
Enjoy this wonderful spring weather with your family!
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