What is American Sign Language (ASL)?

American Sign Language is a complete and complex language that utilizes both visual and manual language. One misconception about ASL is that it is the English language modified for deaf individuals. Contrary to this belief, American Sign Language consists of Phonology, morphology, semantics, pragmatics, and syntax. ASL incorporates facial expressions, gestures, hand movements, and palm orientations to convey messages.

Where did American Sign Language originate?

It has been reported that American Sign Language originated from French Sign Language; however others have reported that ASL was introduced in the United States in 1817 prior to the existence of FSL. In 1817, a French teacher by the name of Laurent Clerc, and a man by the name of Thomas Gallaudet set up the first school for the deaf in Hartford, Connecticut. Many of Laurent Clerc students already created their own natural sign language/home signs. ASL and FSL have similar elements, especially with relevance to the vocabulary.

Why emphasize early language learning?

Research suggests that the most crucial time for a child's language development is six months of age. Language should be introduced to children as early as possible. Children who are exposed to language early on, acquire language more quickly, and have less frustrations and communication issues.

Why should I teach my child ASL?

There are several studies that suggest that learning ASL enhances specific processing functions in the brain. Children who are taught ASL demonstrate quicker processing ability and process visual mental images differently compared to a child who learns the English language. Learning ASL will also alleviate some of the frustrations during the toddler development stage. When a parent or educator teaches a child ASL they have the opportunity to explore their world using more than the auditory approach to learning. Many schools and daycares are now incorporating ASL curriculum into their classrooms and schools. Many educators and parents are seeing the several benefits of this fascinating language.

When should I start teaching my child American Sign Language?

It's never too early, and it's never too late! The ideal age to teach a child ASL would be 3-10 months of age. Our daughter signed her first word "more" at 9 months old. Understandably, my husband is Deaf, so she was exposed to the language early on. Our daughter was able to understand ASL earlier than her ability to express herself through signs. By the age of 2 years old, our daughter could sign over 130 words, where most children without the ASL language on average, say approximately 50 words by the age of 2. Receptive language skills is the ability to absorb language and understand what is being signed. Expressive language skills is the ability to sign what you have learned through watching a parent or teacher.

Will signing delay my child's ability to learn the English Language?

Quite the contrary, teaching a child American Sign Language can only enhance a child's ability to improve their speech and communication skills. Motor skills develop between the ages of 12-18 months; however a child between the ages of 6-12 months can utilize sign language before they are able to speak.