New Class Structure!

I always have believe that everything, good or bad, happens for a reason. I need to restructure the Sign Language class so it is more interactive and less dependent on technology. Simple.

I think the last 2 session have proven that this new group calls for a new format. Done. I've been working on it and I will use it in our next class which will be the 2nd Saturday of June. Actually, our class will be held on the 2nd Saturday of every month for the remainder of 2010 @ a 9:30am!!! Exciting stuff.

I truly love meeting the new parents who have taken on the challenge of learning and teaching this beautiful language to their family so that everyone in the house will have a voice!! Exciting stuff.

One parent felt that their child may be LAZY at time in using their signs, my thought is that kids learn by example. We are requiring that the child use their sign to communicate which means as much as humanly possible We parents have to Model, Model, Model the behavior that we are seeking. So, whenever possible, whereever possible Use your Signs folks so that the children see by example that it's OK at home, at the park, at school, in the restaurant, at family functions (Especially) and worship events.....find opportunities to practice and give your child the CONFIDENCE they need to practice, and become proficient in using this language. It will happen!! Exciting Stuff...

Sign Language class - Family friendly Environment

We had a wonderful session last Saturday, April 24th. Although we were having technical difficulties, we still were able to learn many new signs. We talked alot about Resources, DVD's, Books, and of course practicing among ourselves to strengthen our use of Signs. We had a great group of Moms, Dads, Uncle, Aunts, Cousin, Friends and of course that gave us an opportunity to practice the sign names for those individuals. Do you know the sign for Grandma?

I think a key to learning sign language is practice practice practice. Don't be afraid to incorporate the use of Sign in all of your communications not just with the child who uses it as a primary mode of communication, but also with others in the family.

I am looking forward to the next class that will be held on May 8th at the ARC of Prince Georges' County. We will learn more People signs, Feelings and Mealtime.

Come Sign with us!!!

Sign Language Class - March 13, 2010!!

We will have our first Class for 2010 on MARCH 13, 2010 :
Location: ARC of Prince George in Upper Marlboro, MD.. 1401 McCormick Drive, Largo MD 20774.
Please call if you have any questions 240-305-9952...Register for the class seats will fill up quickly.

Just a quick note: This is a family affair children are welcome!!

Welcome Back.

We are back in business, back in town, and back to work. Our family has been off on an adventure and we are ready to dig into the world of baby signs and family sign language classes.

I have learned so much about the need of incorporating Sign Language in the lives of families with children who for many different reason use Sign Language as a way to communicate with those around them.

As our son gets older he is now 4 1/2 whenever entering a new situation, school, play groups, etc he is able to use his sign language along with his voice to communicate his needs and keep down the tantrums.

Sign Language Class - No summer classes

We will begin a new session in late August. Please check out our blog for the new dates. Post your questions, needs and concerns.

Thank you,

Come Sign With Us Family!!!

Audism - prejudice against deaf community

I think if we are gonna take the time to learn sign language we should also learn about the deaf community and respect it. Communication is a two way street. Although as you read more about Audism you will learn that a huge number of people who are in the deaf are forced to live in an even more silent world in their own homes with their own family and friends and communities. Do you know someone who is deaf? How do you say hello? Can you fingerspell your name? when you enter their room or house do you communicate with your voice or by using Sign Language.
Let me encourage you, if you have a family member who is deaf or hard of hearing and they go to school and use sign or attend college and use Sign or work and use sign. As their family member or friend you too should take the loving time to learn and use sign.
Question: if you were sitting in a group of friends laughing and catching up on old times and your cousin who is deaf sits in the group however no one is signing to him. He could think you are talking about him. Include him face him while you talk, make sure you pull him into the conversation even if no one knows Sign. He will appreciate your efforts. Ask for help with simple signs. Before you know it you will learn more. Most important your cousin does not feel left out or rejected by you and your hearing friends. Think Outside you Comfort Zone...

Why a sign language Class

I started this class out of my own personal need. I have a child who has been diagnoses with a severe speech disorder and from the age of 12months I was told he would need to have an alternative way to communicate. Sign Language was given as an option. The speech therapist felt it would help keep down the frustration and tantrums. So, the journey began as we looked for classes or books on how to teach our son sign language. And at first it was very easy because it seemed like the stylish thing at the time was to learn "Baby Sign". Eat, Milk, Banana, Drink, Apple... all the cute basic stuff. I took a class with my son at the local community center. And the teacher was very helpful. We visited a deaf school and their program for children my sons age, but we were only allowed to observe since my son is hearing. These program are for hearing children only. Finally, We learned about "Signing Times" dvd's and got off to a good start. My sons Infant & Toddler teacher suggested a women who taught in-home classes and we took those classes for about 3 months and it was very helpful. Now that my son is 4 years old and still uses some signs, some voice and eventually he will use a computer device the need is not as great as it was 3 years ago, however, i have a huge amount of compassion for those who find themselves in our families place of wanted to know what to do and how to do it and no true place to go for answer. I have a lot of resources and answer and most importantly passion. Whatever I can do to help I will do my best.