Signing Time Academy classes are a great way for you and your child to learn American Sign Language (ASL) vocabulary as you play, sing, and sign along with your friends and family.

Why learn sign language? In addition to the fun you will have discovering a new and enriching language together, there are many benefits of signing with your child:

Enhances Baby’s Communication Skills. All babies sign naturally! Gestures such as waving bye-bye or blowing kisses indicate that your baby has something to say, and she’ll use her hands to do it until she is old enough to talk. Adding simple ASL vocabulary to daily interactions will give her far more to say than just “bye-bye.”

Reduces Toddlers’ Frustration. Toddlers can learn basic ASL vocabulary quickly and easily with Signing Time Academy classes and products. “Terrible twos” aren’t so terrible when your toddler can communicate what he wants and you can understand him!

Improves Reading Skills. Studies indicate that children who sign have an increased interest in reading and may even read earlier than non-signing peers. Sign language is an effective tool for all types of learning styles: auditory, visual, and kinesthetic/tactile.

Benefits Children with Special Needs. Many children with special needs have difficulty with communication and speech. Sign language facilitates meaningful two-way communication and empowers children with learning challenges to express themselves. Signing encourages connection, reinforces positive self-image, and fosters inclusion and acceptance. Plus, you are learning the basics of American Sign Language, which is used by millions of deaf Americans.

 May Boost IQ. In a study funded by the National Institute of Health (NIH), children at age 8 who were taught signs as babies scored an average 12 points higher on IQ tests when compared to their non-signing peers.