Sign Language School Lunch Program
Gain a Super Power!
We have partnered with Lil Signing Hands to offer this new and exciting program where children ages 5-9 can learn American Sign Language (ASL) vocabulary at their school! This FREE program is delivered during lunch hour so it's convenient for everyone!
What is the Program?
The program consists of learning ASL vocabulary with a trained volunteer. Each week a theme will be covered and students will be taught the alphabet and signs related to that theme. This program is developed to include multi-sensory activities which have been grouped into three categories, each supporting a specific learning modality:
Hear It (songs and poems for auditory learners);
See It (books and felt boards for visual learners);
Do It (finger plays and movement for kinesthetic learners)
We focus on engaging students through the various means above along with music, crafts, etc. while using sign language so they are learning, having fun and enjoying themselves!
Why Should My Child Learn Sign Language?
American Sign Language is classified as a world language, the same as French, Spanish or any other foreign language. Therefore, if a child speaks sign language, the child is considered bilingual. When children are taught English and ASL together, they are processing language using both sides of the brain. This gives the children two places to recall language from instead of just one. Bilingualism of any languages (whether signed or spoken) has an extraordinary impact on boosting the brain. It enriches and enhances children’s cognitive processes, leading to higher abstract and creative thinking, better problem-solving skills, better listening skills, greater academic achievement, and so much more.
Using ASL accommodates a wide range of learning styles that benefit not only Deaf and Hard of Hearing but also hearing children. The representation of information through seeing, hearing, and movement led to more pathways created in the brain which develops stronger memory. This is why both hearing and Deaf children have bigger vocabularies and can learn new words easier…the meaningful hand movements activates this area of the brain. (White Paper: Dr. Claire Vallotton)
A school system is also more than just teaching subjects. Its about community, fostering relationships, learning about other students and making lifelong friends. This program will allow all children the opportunity to feel included and to communicate with Deaf, hard of hearing and non-speaking children in their schools and community.
We know there are children who need ASL in their schools and have limited exposure, if any at all. They are not in a language rich environment. The isolation is real. The epidemic is worldwide. Having students that understands sign language who can communicate with Deaf, hard of hearing and non-speaking children is the true definition of Inclusion.
How can I have this program at my child's school?
I would like to volunteer for this program!
What is the Program?
The program consists of learning ASL vocabulary with a trained volunteer. Each week a theme will be covered and students will be taught the alphabet and signs related to that theme. This program is developed to include multi-sensory activities which have been grouped into three categories, each supporting a specific learning modality:
Hear It (songs and poems for auditory learners);
See It (books and felt boards for visual learners);
Do It (finger plays and movement for kinesthetic learners)
We focus on engaging students through the various means above along with music, crafts, etc. while using sign language so they are learning, having fun and enjoying themselves!
Why Should My Child Learn Sign Language?
American Sign Language is classified as a world language, the same as French, Spanish or any other foreign language. Therefore, if a child speaks sign language, the child is considered bilingual. When children are taught English and ASL together, they are processing language using both sides of the brain. This gives the children two places to recall language from instead of just one. Bilingualism of any languages (whether signed or spoken) has an extraordinary impact on boosting the brain. It enriches and enhances children’s cognitive processes, leading to higher abstract and creative thinking, better problem-solving skills, better listening skills, greater academic achievement, and so much more.
Using ASL accommodates a wide range of learning styles that benefit not only Deaf and Hard of Hearing but also hearing children. The representation of information through seeing, hearing, and movement led to more pathways created in the brain which develops stronger memory. This is why both hearing and Deaf children have bigger vocabularies and can learn new words easier…the meaningful hand movements activates this area of the brain. (White Paper: Dr. Claire Vallotton)
A school system is also more than just teaching subjects. Its about community, fostering relationships, learning about other students and making lifelong friends. This program will allow all children the opportunity to feel included and to communicate with Deaf, hard of hearing and non-speaking children in their schools and community.
We know there are children who need ASL in their schools and have limited exposure, if any at all. They are not in a language rich environment. The isolation is real. The epidemic is worldwide. Having students that understands sign language who can communicate with Deaf, hard of hearing and non-speaking children is the true definition of Inclusion.
How can I have this program at my child's school?
I would like to volunteer for this program!
