[Maria]

Sign language supports brain development in young children because it engages both the right and left sides of the brain, teaches hand-eye coordination, spatial awareness and uses the same neural pathways activated when learning a new language.

[Tami]

We use sign language in our infant room and it works well. Easy way to communicate with our babies

[Trainer]

Great observation, Tami! Sign language truly enhances communication and cognitive skills, fostering early connections in infants. Keep up the excellent work!

[Rachel]

Sign language can help children learn language in a stronger capacity by combining physical movements with the words they are speaking. It also provides greater language learning before their mouth is capable of forming words, allowing children to get a headstart in word recall and use.

[Trainer]

Great insights, Rachel! I agree that sign language enhances language learning and boosts children’s confidence in communication.

[Victoria]

I think it helps support brain development because they are using motions and an understanding of words/ communication. Both sides of the brain are working and they have an easier time learning the motion than the verbal word- making it possible to communicate earlier.

[Trainer]

Great insights, Victoria! Your observation on using motions to enhance communication is spot on and highlights the importance of multi-modal learning.

[Tatiana]

Using sign language in preschool aged in schools lets the child use both sides of the brain which is good for them. I don’t think I have experienced a child in preschool use sign language yet.

[Trainer]

Great observation, Tatiana! Engaging both sides of the brain through sign language can indeed enhance cognitive development.

[Amelie]

Using sign language supports brain development in preschool-aged children in several ways since the use of ASL allows infants to use both hemispheres of their brain. Being fluent in another language than spoken English also participates in creating new synapses in the brain.

[Trainer]

Great insights, Amelie! Your connection between ASL and brain development highlights the importance of bilingualism in early learning.

[Kimberly Hastings]

I think ASL supports brain development because even before babies and sometimes toddlers can speak, you can teach them to sign to communicate. When my daughter was born, it was hard for me know know all the time what my child needed or wanted, but if I would have taught her sign language, I would have known. Bridging the gap at such a young age. How cool! Also I have learned that sign language increases a child’s IQ and makes it easier for a child to talk when they are ready because they already know the meaning of the word, they just have to learn to say the word. There are so many benefits to sign language. Who wouldn’t want their child to start being bilingual at 8 months old?

[Stephanie Frazee]

I have ESL learners as well as kiddos who are on the spectrum. I feel being able to use sign and sign effectively with them will give them another or only way to communicate their needs. The end goal is of course to use our voices, but in situations where that isn’t possible this will give the voiceless the ability to get their views across and let friends know how they feel, without feeling left out. The students will also have the benefit of movement linked to sound linked to visual text, reenforcing learning in all areas.

[Trainer]

Great insights, Stephanie! Your emphasis on sign language as a bridge for communication is vital for inclusive learning.

[Helene Wiener]

When Sign language is taught and used with spoken language it promotes and reinforces learning of letters, and other educational concepts. Children are using both sides of the brain which will help remember information. I had a student who was extremely shy and would not speak in a group setting. He would point or use motions to ask for things. I feel if we knew ASL, it would have helped him to communicate his wants and needs making him more comfortable in class.

[Trainer]

Great insights, Helene! Your example illustrates how sign language fosters confidence and enhances communication, supporting overall brain development.

[Chasity]

Using English and ASL is great for brain development. It helps the brain to develop on both sides. I have seen an infant use sign language to communicate before they could speak actually words.

[Trainer]

Great observation, Chasity! Your example highlights how sign language fosters early communication and cognitive growth in young children.

[Grace McConnell]

You’re introducing a second language to a child and expanding their knowledge on how to communicate with peers. You’re also introducing dexterity and fine motor with ASL. Giving the kids a way to express themselves even if they cannot speak or are struggling with their verbal language.

[Sashel]

I think that involving abcs signs might help the children learn their abcs better and and singing using the signs at art will help them with their fine motors and give them a second language.

[Caity Monahan]

Sign language helps in brain development as it incorporates the use of both the left and right sides of the brain to communicate. Kids are able to communicate with their care givers at an earlier age when using sign language. Having those language skills all ready built up from an early age can help in the development of other language skills later on.