The interest in teaching babies sign language has exploded in the past 5 years, in the United States and other countries. The Baby Signs Program has over 700 Instructors nationwide, in Canada, and a number of other countries. The Baby Signs Program offers signing classes to parents, caregivers, and children 6 months- 2 years old.
Now, parents who have older children have the opportunity to enroll them in a fun, hands-on class KIDS LOVE TO SIGN. "I had numerous families in Arizona asking for a class their children 3-8 years old could take. Kids and parents are fascinated with American Sign Language and are jumping at the chance to learn more," says Jenny Hodges, MaEd, founder of the Kids Love to Sign Program.
Over 20 years of research conducted by Drs. Linda Acredolo and Susan Goodwyn proves that signing with infants and toddlers jumpstarts intellectual development, increases IQ, and reduces a child's frustration. (Check out www.babysigns.com for more research and information)
There is an increasing amount of research on signing with preschoolers as well. Signing with hearing preschoolers improves vocabulary, reading ability, spelling proficiency, and self-esteem. Signing helps with classroom management and promotes a comfortable, positive learning environment.
"I have incorporated signing into my Kindergarten classroom this year and the results are amazing. Less noise, interruptions, a better behaved class," says Stacey, a veteran Kindergarten teacher in Arizona.
The Kids Love to Sign Program, based on national educational standards teaches children 3-8 yr. old basic ASL vocabulary through songs,games, books,and a variety of signing activities. To find out more, visit www.kidslovetosign.com
