I love Sign Language! I had not thought much about it until we went to Bible School. There were a number of hearing impaired students with whom I wished to communicate, so I started taking Sign Language classes. Trying out my new skills on some of my friends was quite funny. Thankfully they were very patient (and amused). At first I just wanted to be able to communicate with them, then I thought it would be great to talk to those who could not hear, about God. After our daughter was born it seemed like a good idea to teach her too.
Teaching sign language to babies has grown in popularity over the last few years and understandably so. Many babies who can sign dont cry and fuss as much because they are able to communicate .
Here are a few articles on teaching babies sign language:
http://www.teach-at-home.com/JVanLaanenSmit.asp
http://theparentsite.com/parenting/signbaby.asp
http://www.kindersigns.com/
http://www.signingbaby.com/main/
http://www.cbc.ca/news/background/babysign/
Last year we were introduced to Signingtime.com
Both my kids have enjoyed their videos...watching with them has also helped me remember some of the signs I had forgotten. Their videos are colorful and fun. They are usually centered around a theme and include songs - which seem to help in memorizing. Our library carries a few of Signing Times titles - check your local library, they may too.
Sign Language is a great subject for homeschooling families. It doesn't require expensive curriculum either.
I feel that it is a wonderful service to our country and fellow man to learn sign language. It breaks down barriers of communication and shows those with hearing loss that we care enough to learn their language! My children will be learning sign language all throughout their homeschooling years. Even if you dont wish to use Sign Language as a "foreign language" in your homeschool, you can learn a few simple signs to help you communicate. It can even help with your own family - think about how nice it would be to be able to tell your child "secretly"to sit down or say thank you to the sweet old lady that just gave them a lollipop! It does come in handy!
Learn Signs Online:
Below a few websites that have great video demonstrations of many signs.
American Sign Language Browser
American Sign Language Dictionary
http://www.lessontutor.com/ASLgenhome.html - Lots of information and instruction. Includes free worksheets
Some books I have used:
Australian Sign Language Resources
Australian Sign Language - www.auslan.org.au Sign Bank - includes videos demonstrating signs
www.signswap.com.au
Have a great day,
Stacy | 
Posted by 
Posted by 
Posted by 
Posted by 
Posted by 
Posted by 
