Connie Robinson

American Sign Language for All Americans

 

So Goes the Ego

Now that your child has reached the middle years, he or she has a clear understanding that others possess a perspective on things that can differ than his/her own.  The good news is that they are old enough to be okay with that.  The better news is that there is actually a language where you MUST see things from the other person's perspective in order to "listen" to it and understand it.  It is called American Sign Language.  Because the language is visual, listening to someone is like reading a piece of paper held up to a mirror.  Being able to see from the signer's perspective is mandatory.  Teaching a child ASL at this age is and excellent choice to help your 8 or 9 year old continue to build a larger view of the their world.


 
Friends Forever                                                                                                                                                                                                 

Do you remember your elementary school friends?  These are probably the first "real" friends you had.  Around age 8 or 9 is when we begin to value companionship.  We like to be a part of the team, of the class, of the group, and of the conversation.  Our social lives begin.  The Handful of Language class encourages friendly signing games and activities.  Children get to see just how fun learning America's third most commonly used language can be.  Seeing hands fly through the air is enough to spark anyone's curiosity and the eight or nine year old is no exception.  Being in a group of flying hands can only improve social interaction and provide the opportunity for shared learning experiences.   

                                                                                                                                       

"I" Before "E" Except After "C" and on Tuesdays                                                                            

Your third or fourth grader is becoming quite the expert on this language called English.  Using existing skills to acquire new ones is like connecting the dots.  By using their existing language skills, children not only learn American Sign Language, but learn how to use it to increase their current English skills even further.  One language builds upon the other.  Before you know it, your child will have two handfuls of language!

                                                                                                                                        

 

 
A Love for Literacy                                                                                 

With increased language skills comes an increase interest in reading.  American Sign Language has been used as a reading tool for both hearing and deaf children since the mid 1800's.  In the Handful of Language class, your third and fourth grader will build upon current skills and increase their literary curiosity.  Allowing for language exploration can only serve to create a love for literacy that will last a lifetime. 

                                                                                                                                           

If you are interested in the Handful of Language class for third and fourth graders click on CALENDAR to find available classes and registration information or email instructor@ASLasl.com .