All Hands On Deck: A Deep Dive into ASL in Kindergarten

For Kindergarten Teacher Kristin Young, her Deep Dive—a yearlong professional study—is very hands on.

After researching and reading about American Sign Language (ASL), Young learned that many students thrive in multiple areas when taught ASL.

She embarked on a journey to first teach herself sign language and then increasingly teach and incorporate ASL in the daily aspects of her classroom. Young felt that her students would embrace the physicality and pictorial expression of ASL and that it could have cognitive benefits as well.

ASL uses eyes, bodies, faces, hands, and emotions to express. Using ASL boosts self-confidence and self-esteem. It helps with expressing emotions and helps with expressive and receptive language skills.

Sign language also requires focus. When Young is showing students how to form letters with her hands, they need to look and pay attention. Signing incorporates a multisensory approach to learning. Students are always active participants in the process.

“I feel strongly that my deep dive will benefit our Kindergarten program because a child’s vocabulary and literacy skills are just emerging. So why not teach such hungry minds another language?” Young explained.

“My students are so excited and feel extremely proud when they are able to speak without using their voices. I am so proud of my students for learning ASL—I truly believe that I am creating a more empathic community of learners.”

The Peck School is a K-8, co-ed, independent school in Morristown, NJ. www.peckschool.org

We set the standard for excellence in K-8 education, where academic preparation and character development intersect powerfully in the learning experience. By embedding consideration of others, service, and belonging in all that we do, we are designing an integrated approach to education that develops curious and disciplined learners who positively shape the world. Follow us for more:

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