Family Signing Time

Instructor: Tracie Rieder

Long before children can speak, they communicate through facial expressions, body language, and gestures. Family Signing Time builds on these natural forms of communication by introducing families to American Sign Language (ASL) in a fun, interactive way.

Research has shown that using signs consistently with young children can support early communication and language development, reduce frustration by giving children a way to express their needs, and strengthen the bond between parents and children.  Kids also benefit from learning sign language by building vocabulary, supporting early literacy, enhancing communication skills, and fostering empathy and inclusion for members of the Deaf community and others who utilize ASL to communicate.

In each class, families will learn practical, everyday signs (from American Sign Language) through stories, songs, games, and movement activities. You'll leave with signs you can begin using at home right away, along with ideas for incorporating sign language into your daily routines. Discover the beauty of sign language while creating meaningful moments of connection with your child.

This class is intended for 1 or 2 parents (or caregivers) to attend with their children aged birth through 5 years. 

Tracie Rieder is a former elementary teacher and a teacher for the deaf and hard of hearing (TDHH).  She has worked closely with parents and young children as both TDHH in the Rochester Birth-3 Special Education Program, and as a family child care provider for 23 years.  She is also a licensed Signing Time Instructor, and a parent coach with Timeout Behavior Coaching.

Dates: Thursdays, October 1-29 (no class 10/15)
Time: 5:30-6:30pm
Location: BCI Library
Cost: $48.00 for 1 child and up to 2 caregivers; $32.00 per additional child or additional caregiver