OH-Franklin County-Columbus [Archive] - Signing Time Forums

c01dunlap

11-05-2005, 04:52 AM

Note: This first post will be continually updated with current information

Next playgroup:

Saturday November 17, 2007 (2pm - 4pm)
***Place to be determined. Past playgroups have been at:

At the Westerville Electric Company.
139 E. Broadway Ave.
Westerville OH 43081-1507
(614) 901-6700 (business hours phone - not weekends)

http://maps.yahoo.com/maps_result?addr=139+E+Broadway+Ave.&csz=Westerville%2C+OH&country=us&new=1&name=&qty=

** See recent summary (http://www.signingtime.com/forums/showthread.php?p=4048&post4048) and commentary (http://www.signingtime.com/forums/showthread.php?p=4050&post4050) posts for additional details on January's meeting! Planning for next meeting details begins 2/14/06 post (http://www.signingtime.com/forums/showthread.php?p=4495&post4495).

Busybeth

11-08-2005, 10:47 AM

Okay, I have the place and time set!

Saturday, November 12th
From 10:00 am -12:00 pm (Just in time to get home for the Buckeye game!).
At the Westerville Electric Company.
139 E. Broadway Ave.
Westerville OH 43081-1507

http://maps.yahoo.com/maps_result?addr=139+E+Broadway+Ave.&csz=Westerville%2C+OH&country=us&new=1&name=&qty=

Here’s a link to yahoo maps. Just click on the “to here” button, put in your address and it will give you directions from your house.
The lady on the phone said it was just 6 blocks north from the Westerville Public Library.

We will have a showing of Baby Signing Time and lots of signing and refreshments to follow.
(Please bring a snack to share.)

I look forward to seeing many of you there!

Please RSVP busybeth@rlhansen.org

Thanks!
~Elizabeth

kimberly

11-10-2005, 02:40 PM

I'm just wondering... How many people generally come to these playgroups and how often are the playgroups held?

Kimberly in Lancaster
Carter 11/01
Jacob 4/03
Allison 3/05

c01dunlap

11-11-2005, 08:14 AM

I'm re-posting as a question to the "Suggestions for starting a local playgroup in your area" thread for general response.

I'm just wondering... How many people generally come to these playgroups and how often are the playgroups held?

Kimberly in Lancaster
Carter 11/01
Jacob 4/03
Allison 3/05

c01dunlap

11-11-2005, 08:34 AM

Kim,

Will you be at the Westerville playgroup tomorrow? I'd love to meet you! Sophie (8/03) and I will be there.

I'm just wondering... How many people generally come to these playgroups and how often are the playgroups held?

Kimberly in Lancaster
Carter 11/01
Jacob 4/03
Allison 3/05

kimberly

11-11-2005, 09:38 PM

c01dunlap

11-12-2005, 05:38 AM

Thanks for posting my question to the "suggestions" board. I've actually been in contact with Beth and I'm really excited about helping start this group up! I won't be able to make it tomorrow, as we've scheduled some home shopping. :( But I am definitely committed to helping you guys get this thing going. I'm really excited to eventually meet you all!

I'm glad you're getting involved - sorry you won't be there today. I'm sure we'll meet soon, though. Love the pictures of your kids! I might have to try to get an "autumn" picture of Sophie, too; cute idea :)

Have a great weekend!

kimberly

11-12-2005, 05:49 AM

Thanks Chris! And please let me know how it goes today. I'll be really interested to hear.

c01dunlap

11-13-2005, 05:45 AM

Hi All!

Well, Elizabeth, 3 of her kids and Sophie (my dd) and I met yesterday at the Electric Company. First, Elizabeth, I can't tell you how great it was to meet you and your children in person! Wish we had gotten the big screen working (my dh promises we have the adapters and will next time); Kayleigh is so darling in person, too!

It was so neat to have Sophie see other children signing. Believe it or not, that hour and 1/2 had a lasting impact the rest of the day -- she was signing left and right (ok, just right, I'm the lefty :-). How :cool: cool is that?!? I hope we can get a crowd for next time! Even with several other kids running around, Sophie was quite taken with BST, and watched for long segments before breaking away for a snack or to see what everyone else was doing.

The facilities were fantastic - Elizabeth really found us a terrrific place to meet. Who would have thought the Westerville E.Co. loans its facilities out free to non-profit groups? They have this wonderful, huge conference room (tables kid-proof for crayoning) with AV (VCR, no DVD - I'll bring adapters for our portable/car DVD player next time). They have a kitchen complete with oven and microwave (popcorn, anyone?), and restrooms, of course.

As we were talking about the next time, we thought we'd try to use the "poll" feature on the new forum. It is very easy to use (you do have to be logged in), and allows everyone to "multi-vote". So, Elizabeth can list several dates as options, and we each can mark any/all that we can attend. That will let us select the date that includes the most families, and Elizabeth won't have to be doing manual tallies and back-and-forth emails. Hopefully that will be quick and easy for all of us. For my part, if I see a date getting popular, I'd try to change my schedule to get there. If you can't tell, I'm SOOO excited to be able to meet face-to-face, and give Sophie the feedback & reinforcement that I get here :D

BTW, Elizabeth has kids of all ages (she'll have to give specifics; I've forgotten), so this is not just for babies & toddlers! Come one, come all...

Okay, I think I've blabbered enough. After this gushing, Elizabeth might not invite me again. LOL.

kimberly

11-13-2005, 11:20 PM

Sounds wonderful! I'm glad the facilities were good and I'm excited to come the next time. I'll bring the popcorn. LOL.

kimberly

11-18-2005, 03:26 PM

Hey all!

Jodi just posted some ASL info over in the commercial signing forum ("Signs" of Christmas). Sounds like a wonderful program. Just wanted to make sure everyone saw it.

c01dunlap

11-21-2005, 05:18 PM

Hey all!

Jodi just posted some ASL info over in the commercial signing forum ("Signs" of Christmas). Sounds like a wonderful program. Just wanted to make sure everyone saw it.

Kimberly,

Thanks for posting here -- not sure I would have seen the reminder in the "Commnercial..." forum. Link, as Jodi gave it, is http://www.signsofchristmas.org . We definitely plan to catch one of the performances the first week!

signing bug

11-30-2005, 03:20 PM

Is there anything in the works?
I'm still getting my feet wet with the new forum whenever I can find the time.
I'll keep checking this thread.

Happy Holidays,
Melissa in Ohio

c01dunlap

11-30-2005, 05:12 PM

Melissa,

Thanks for checking in! I think, due to the holidays, Elizabeth (Busybeth) is thinking of January. Maybe we can get a poll going soon, so we can pick a date that works for everyone.

BTW, are you from the old alexandleah yahoo group? Didn't recognize your id - are you one of the Melissa's from there?

Hope to meet you in person in January!! Happy Holidays!

signing bug

11-30-2005, 06:02 PM

Yes Chris, I was mfalter2. I thought that was lame so i changed it to signing bug, a spin off my e-mail address which is lovebug. Hope to catch up with the group in January!

c01dunlap

11-30-2005, 06:09 PM

Yes Chris, I was mfalter2. I thought that was lame so i changed it to signing bug, a spin off my e-mail address which is lovebug. Hope to catch up with the group in January!
Don't know that mfalter2 was any lamer than c01dunlap, hee, hee. Just was too lazy to come up with something creative over here. I think "signing bug" is terribly cute :cool: !

c01dunlap

12-02-2005, 07:37 AM

Good Morning!

Carla Z. (who I believe would be traveling in from out of town) cast a vote of "Sunday afternoon" for Playgroup meeting preferences. Hopefully she'll get logged in over here and get a chance to add herself to the poll, but in case she doesn't, I didn't want to forget her!

kimberly

12-02-2005, 12:01 PM

Chris,

I just wanted to let you know that I really can't do Sundays. And I'm not trying to be difficult at all. It's just part of our religious practices. I'll bend over backwards for any other day. This is so hard. I want everyone to be able to come!

Kimberly

c01dunlap

12-02-2005, 05:02 PM

Kim,

That is fine, that is why we're doing the poll. Church is the reason that Sunday morning is unavailable for our family, so I quite understand! Prior to reading your post here, I had already asked Carla if she had any other availability, and she said that Saturday afternoon is her second choice (she'll be driving from northern Ohio). We'll do what we can to get everyone involved :)

Have a terrific weekend!

c01dunlap

12-09-2005, 08:51 PM

I'll post a new poll next week to give several January Saturdays as options. If there are already ones that don't work for you, feel free to post/email to let me know. If we get the date nailed down soon enough, I'll also see if I can figure out ways to give it a little PR in the area.

BTW, would folks be okay if I touched base with the local School for the Deaf to see if there would be any interest? I thought that it might be neat.

Have a terrific weekend. Stay warm!!

CNow

12-28-2005, 07:37 AM

Hi, I'm new to the forum.

I have a hearing-impaired 2 year old that I'm sure could benefit from a play group. Can you please let me know when the next group will meet. We started using ST about 5 months ago and he now has probably 50 signs.

Thanks
Connie :)

c01dunlap

12-29-2005, 03:07 PM

I couldn't get rid of the old poll / add a new one for this thread. The Westerville Electric Company is becoming a bit popular anyway, since the Westerville Library is referring everyone there. So, I took the last weekend in January to give everyone time to get it on their calendars.

Saturday, January 28th
From 2:30 pm -4:00 pm (room available starting at 2 pm for set up)
At the Westerville Electric Company.
139 E. Broadway Ave.
Westerville OH 43081-1507

http://maps.yahoo.com/maps_result?addr=139+E+Broadway+Ave.&csz=Westerville%2C+OH&country=us&new=1&name=&qty=

Bring a snack to share among the kids (& know the sign :p )!

Please RSVP by posting here (or, if you don't have a login id c01dunlap@yahoo.com), either yes or no, so we know that you got the message. Thanks!!

Also, Kimberly, I think you volunteered to help coordinate - any ideas on themes/activities? Actually, open to anyone who wants to throw something out. We have Vols 7-9, so picking one of them & having a corresponding 'theme' activity might be an idea. Too cooolldd to visit the zoo this time...

Have a Happy New Year's, and hope to meet you all on the 28th!!

CNow

12-30-2005, 08:32 AM

All,

I just contacted WOSU.TV about the possibility of them adding ST to their list of children's programming. They will check into it (I guess their programming is out-sourced).

I would please encourage other members of our playgroup to lobby the station to get this added to their line up. The number is: 614 292-9678 or you can email them at: wosu@osu.edu

c01dunlap

12-30-2005, 11:01 AM

Connie,

Thanks for the quick work!! Wanted to add the snail-mail address, as Rachel & ST have requested (below) that we all do handwritten letters & no phone calls or emails. I hadn't caught that myself before she reminded us. So:

WOSU TV
Attn: Stacia Hentz, Television Program Manager
2400 Olentangy River Road
Columbus, OH 43210

FROM FAQ's
http://www.signingtime.com/pressroom/faqs.html

What can I do to get Signing Time on my PBS/Public Television station?
If you are in an area that did not pick up Signing Time, you can write a friendly, hand-written letter to your local station and send it via regular mail (US Postal service). Feel free to include a photo of your little signer and let them know why you value Signing Time and how it has impacted you. We understand that e-mails and phone calls can have a negative impact on station managers and would not recommend them.Note: red color added by me...

c01dunlap

12-30-2005, 01:22 PM

Kids of all ages are welcome. I'll note here as I find out who is coming. I wasn't sure if anyone was 'shy' about having names/kids names listed, so I won't do that unless you tell me it's okay. So far:

Sophie (2+ yr. old) & Chris ... bringing cheese & grapes
Alex (2 1/2 yr. old) & Connie
Marissa (2 1/2 yr. old) & Heather ... may bring crackers & ?? (I forgot :o )
Alyssa (1 yr. old), Gina & Rob
Arika (2 1/2 yr. old), Carla & Brad
Carter (4 yrs.), Jacob (2 1/2 yrs.), Allison (10 mos.) & Kimberly

We won't have Joy (deaf adult cousin) joining us, unfortunately. Perhaps next time. She is very good at lip reading, terrifically patient, loves kids, and can add the 'local accent' for anything we want.

CNow

12-30-2005, 01:31 PM

Alex (age 2 1/2) and me (Connie)

c01dunlap

12-30-2005, 01:47 PM

Alex (age 2 1/2) and me (Connie)
Cool! Look forward to meeting you!!

c01dunlap

01-02-2006, 02:26 PM

Gina asked a good question - how much to bring in the way of snacks? Enough to share with some or all the kids. For example, I'll be bringing cheese & grapes, since those were a hit last time :) . There is a complete kitchen (including microwave) there, but I wouldn't get too fancy (unless you really want to learn the sign for mini-spinach-quiches, LOL).

We'll be in the conference room which I think has a carpet, so we don't want anything that would stain either. BYO drinks, too, if you kids will want something other than water (I *think* there was a pop machine, but won't swear to it).

The more, the merrier! Check out the list of kids/parents (http://www.signingtime.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2866&postcount=25) coming so far!

happyfrog

01-07-2006, 09:37 AM

c01dunlap

01-07-2006, 10:43 AM

Wish I could attend, but I'm due sometime soon. .. . . ('officially' Jan 10-15 depending on what you go by date wise, lol) and don't know how sore I'll be at the end of the month - if I even deliver early (I expect to deliver around 42 weeks - Jan 24-ish actually). . .. .

I'm in Newark, which makes travelling to Westerville, etc., a bit pricey for me - costs me about $13 round trip in gas at the moment to drive back/forth to Columbus. . . . . as a SAHM it's hard to find the money to do 'extra' trips beyond the doc appts right now.

Anyone closer to me who might be interested in a more local group for us 'outsiders' (outside Columbus - east side?)

BettyAnnWell, do let us know when you're back up & running, so to speak, how everything went with the delivery & the new little one (how exciting!!).

Westerville is a definitely haul from Newark. Since I'm actually in Centerburg, for me Newark isn't that much further than Westerville, so if you do get one started out there, we might come to your playgroup (if you let us 'insiders' join ;) ).

Have a terrific weekend!

cgzeiter

01-12-2006, 06:24 AM

Hi Everyone!
Please add us to your 'who's coming list'. Not sure what kind of snack we're bringing yet.
Can't wait to meet everyone!
Carla, Brad, & Arika (almost 2 1/2)

c01dunlap

01-12-2006, 09:19 AM

Carla - done, thanks! I've assumed Brad is DH, not DS since you didn't give a kid-age. Correct me if I'm wrong ;)

Kimberly, do you think you'll make it Saturday, 1/28? I'm hopeful - looking forward to meeting you & family :)

c01dunlap

01-23-2006, 02:39 PM

Don't forget about the playgroup this Saturday!! And feel free to bring a friend if you want ;) . I might have a one or two of Sophie's cousins in tow (toddlers too). We take walk-ins too. :D

c01dunlap

01-27-2006, 03:03 PM

I'm going to bring my camera, too. I'll be happy to post/share pics with anyone afterwards. I was also hoping we might get a group shot of the kids signing to send off to local PBS stations. :D

Also, looks like I won't have any relatives in tow this time. Ah, well, one set of Dunlaps is probably enough for a first meeting. :p

kimberly

01-27-2006, 09:00 PM

c01dunlap

01-27-2006, 09:28 PM

Chris!

You should've e-mailed me -- I almost totally forgot (and I haven't had the computer for a few weeks). It's just like me to barely remember events the night before. Anyway, count our family in -- at least me and the three kiddos -- Carter 11/01, Jacob 4/03 and Allison 3/05. Daddy has to work. :( Well, we're excited to meet all of you tomorrow!!

Kimberly
Glad you're coming! Sorry, I didn't think about email with you -- I've always 'found' you on the forum. No computer for a few weeks?!? Yikes, I'd be beside myself! :eek: LOL

kimberly

01-27-2006, 11:45 PM

Chris- No apologies! I was totally kidding. It's not your job to watch over me and I wouldn't have gotten your email until recently anyway. I am glad that I remembered though. I would've felt pretty bad about missing it. See you tomorrow!

c01dunlap

01-30-2006, 10:21 AM

We had a great playgroup this Saturday, with a handful of kids. I'll have some pics to share soon (maybe later this week; it'll be a busy week). Of those that planned to come, we had:

Sophie (2+ yr. old) & Chris
Marissa (2 1/2 yr. old) & Heather
Arika (2 1/2 yr. old), Carla & Brad (from Toledo area! & puppy came too)
Carter (4 yrs.), Jacob (2 1/2 yrs.), Allison (10 mos.) & Kimberly

We were sorry that the other kids couldn't make it this Saturday (hope no one got lost!!), and look forward to meeting others in February.

This time, we watched Zoo Train/vol 9 (Arika's request via signing "Train" :) ) together and had snacks (& signed for them). Other activities included coloring (ST coloring pages with food* on them), playing with plastic toy animals (farm & Noah's Ark animals) & watching Leah's Farm (v7) & Great Outdoors (v8). It was neat to see Carter, Kimberly's eldest on screen! :D

Hope everyone had fun!! Post any comments to encourage others, and ideas for changing / improving future playgroups please! I'll start us off on the next post...

* Uh, that would be with pictures of food on them. Crayons, not snack remains were used to add color. :p

c01dunlap

01-30-2006, 10:49 AM

Hi all! Sophie & I had a blast on Saturday! As before, Sophie came away signing more the rest of the day, and asked to watch "Sigh Time" several times that evening. She is fairly outgoing, and quite the ham, so at times I had trouble getting pics of the other kids because Sophie would pop in the frame saying "Cheese" before I hit the button! :eek:

I did, however, get several good shots, even a good one of our little shy one, Arika. Arika started out in her mom's lap, and camped out there for a while. At snack time, she signed that she was "full", but later snuck up to the table for snacks. By the end, before leaving, she gave out 'bye-bye' hugs, and showed off her huge puppy. Quite popular with the two girls that were left when puppy came out for a last, well, 'sniff at the grass'. He seemed to tower over all of them (I don't know what breed, but he was big & friendly).

Kimberly's troops were quite the signers. Well, the older boys, at least. Allison (10 mo) still mostly used her hands to get around (crawl). Carter was so cute during his TV debut that we watched. He buried his face shyly on his mom when we all clapped, but then later he signed for me on camera! Not quite the ham Sophie is, but definitely a clear signer. Jacob, the younger boy, signed for me, but did all of his signing under the table with his head above. LOL. He cracked me up!! Both boys were very friendly, and it was clear that they just adored their little sister. What a great family!

Marissa, was quite lively. She knows quite a few signs, and was really good at picking out the animals as her mom signed them! Heather (Marissa's mom) said that Marissa has not yet been willing to watch "Great Outdoors". I'm curious as to whether or not that changed after the playgroup... Just as Sophie is know for being a ham, Marissa's reputation is for having hollow legs... she usually eats up a storm, and I think snack time was not an exception. Mind you, Marissa is a petite little pixie for all of that eating she does.

For next time:

Get the TV-to-DVD player connection working right :(
Be sure toys are baby-safe or at least out of reach (some of the animals I brought were really too small)
Maybe try a more formal circle-style activity (I'd need help here!) to encourage the kids to interact
Have a short activity planned for the parents (perhaps an attempt at a 'silent sign' if that's not to wierd?)
Get Kimberly to talk about her family ties. :D She's our local ST celeb!!

c01dunlap

02-02-2006, 03:12 PM

All,

I got a request for Saturday March 11th for the March playgroup. Comments on that date too, would be appreciated!

Have a great rest of the week! Take care,

c01dunlap

02-14-2006, 09:17 AM

Hi all,

As a part of the flu/whatever-I-had, I lost my voice for a week. I had not called to reserve a room or anything, since I had not seen any posts here, emails, or private messages of people expressing interest. If you are interested, I'll be happy to do a quick last minute set up for this Saturday (I have my own calendar blocked for it).

I'm going to suggest going forward that we follow what some of the other groups are doing -- pick a standard day-of-the-month so there is no need for a lot of back-and-forth correspondence. So... unless someone has an objection, we'll make it the 2nd Saturday of the month, from 2pm - 4pm, starting in March (March 11th).

Please note, RSVPs will still be important! I'd like to be sure we have several families for the kids to interact, especially since some are traveling fairly far for the get-togethers.

Thanks all!! Look forward to meeting some new faces next month!

gran2sophie

02-14-2006, 10:58 PM

Sure wish we could come, but it's too far.

c01dunlap

02-16-2006, 02:09 PM

Sure wish we could come, but it's too far.
Hi Jill! Sure wish you lived closer. ;)

It's officially cancelled - no playgroup 2/18 (this weekend). Several who hopefully will make it in March won't make it this weekend. Carla Z. kindly emailed me too - sounds like it could have been a long treacherous drive for them this weekend anyway.

Looking for RSVP's then for March 11th! Also, still open to feedback if "2nd Saturday of the month" collides routinely with your schedule, let me know. I just picked it randomly (to avoid most major holidays).

Look forward to another ST party, er, playgroup!!

c01dunlap

03-09-2006, 01:13 PM

So far I have 3 families that have considered coming:

Sophie (2 1/2 yr. old) & Chris
Arika (2 1/2 yr. old), Carla & Brad (from Toledo area)
Eric (2 yr. old) & Becky

Marissa (2 1/2 yr. old) & Heather will probably not come, but not really sure.

kimberly

03-09-2006, 04:19 PM

Sorry, we can't make it. :( Hope you guys have a great time, though! And I'd love to see the pictures from the last playgroup, Chris. Do you have them posted somewhere? If not, e-mail me a few pics when you get a minute. Thanks!

c01dunlap

03-09-2006, 11:19 PM

Can be seen at http://photobucket.com/albums/c223/c01dp/ST%20Playgroup/ :D

Un-edited - for many parents, there is no bad picture... LOL!

Here are a few of our 'signing' shots...
http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c223/c01dp/ST%20Playgroup/STsigners060128sm.jpg
(Heather & Kimberly are demonstrating FARM 'together')

And yes, sadly, my own daughter didn't get a signing shot. She was trying to be quite the camera hog, so in my efforts to avoid ONLY her mug in all the pics, well...
__________________
- Chris in Ohio

c01dunlap

03-10-2006, 07:04 AM

Can't believe I have to do this last minute, but the flu has re-surfaced at our household (were getting better, then *blam*), and Eric/Becky won't come for similar reasons. :eek:

We will NOT be meeting tomorrow.

c01dunlap

03-11-2006, 09:39 AM

All,

Next target date = Saturday, April 8th (2-4).

<< Location Changing - check more recent posts>>

Right now, we have:

Sophie (2 1/2 yr. old) & Chris
Eric (2 yr. old) & Becky

and possibly (unconfirmed):
Arika (2 1/2 yr. old), Carla & Brad (from Toledo area)
Marissa (2 1/2 yr. old) & Heather

Come join us (every 2nd Saturday of the month)

kimberly

03-13-2006, 12:43 AM

Vonnie

03-16-2006, 10:47 AM

:confused: I am completely lost but learning - I moved from Arizona last November to Ohio - So I would like to know more about the playgroups - If someone could e-mail me that information at VonnieJelani@yahoo.com then eventually (hopefully) I will learn how to use this. :p

c01dunlap

03-16-2006, 11:35 AM

Sent you email! Let us know if you're coming!

c01dunlap

03-20-2006, 07:48 AM

Jacob is actually having his 3rd birthday party on Saturday April 8th at 2:00 (it was the only time slot McDonald's had left). I'm going to have to miss another ST playgroup. :( Saturdays are usually pretty darn busy for our little family. But we'll keep trying!
Which McDonalds? We'll 'crash' the party! :D LOL Just kidding, of course. You and your crew will be missed...

BTW, did you see the pics posted? Thanks again for the reminder! Hope to add more to the ST photobucket album next month.

kimberly

03-20-2006, 08:12 PM

The pictures are great, Chris! Thanks for posting them.

Jacob just HAD to have a "Curious George" McDonald's birthday party. I waited too long, and afternoon was the only time left. Oh well. At this point, we're really hoping the party takes place at all. It looks like we may be taking a trip to Utah, as my grandmother is slipping away. Hard times...

At any rate, we hope you all have a great playgroup! I'm sure you'll let us know how it goes.

ChamFamMom

03-21-2006, 10:09 AM

c01dunlap

03-23-2006, 10:38 AM

Hi Ohio Singing Time Families ,

We are singing with our 14 month old son. His 5 big brothers are having fun too.

Saturdays are usually really full for us but I have put the April play group on our calender. We'll see how the day looks as we get closer.
That is fantastic!! All the kids are welcome to come, of course. Right now we mostly have babies/toddlers in the group. What are the brothers' ages? I haven't tried to snag "BusyBeth" since Nov/Dec (because she's too busy, LOL), but she brought some older kids to the first playgroup I attended.

Looking forward to meeting you in April, or whenever you can fit us in! :p

ChamFamMom

03-23-2006, 11:12 AM

My big boys are 15, 13, 11, 9, and 7. They are BIG brothers. They all think signing is cool as they dote on the baby. It is unlikely though that we will all decend on play group, maybe a parent and two or three boys.

Thanks for the welcome.

Marie

c01dunlap

04-04-2006, 05:16 AM

In the 'Where is Rachel' forum, they posted an interactive map where you can add yourself.

we can
i started this map for everyone (hope it's ok!)
if you don't want to put your actual town (which is a good idea) use the closest big city

http://www.frappr.com/signingtime
Don't know if they will ever use this to help determine where Rachel goes, but... Add yourself for Ohio if you get a chance!! :p

c01dunlap

04-05-2006, 12:27 PM

All,

Saturday, April 8th (2-4). Planned location / information:

***************************************
LOCATION changed to:
Grace Lutheran Church
182 W. Houck Street
Centerburg, Ohio 43011
***************************************

Right now, we have:

Sophie (2 1/2 yr. old) & Chris
Eric (2 yr. old) & Becky
Arika (2 1/2 yr. old), Carla & Brad (from Toledo area)
Marissa (2 1/2 yr. old) & Heather

and possibly (unconfirmed):

boy (14 mo. old), couple of older boys & Marie
toddler & Vonnie
twins (8 mo. old) & parents

Come join us (every 2nd Saturday of the month)

c01dunlap

04-07-2006, 02:42 PM

Will post directions in a bit. Sorry for the last-minute move. Got a scheduling snafu at the Electric Co (my fault - I did 1st Saturday of the month, not 2nd, and it's full tomorrow).

Hang in there!

c01dunlap

04-07-2006, 03:40 PM

We will be meeting at:

Grace Lutheran Church
182 W. Houck Street
Centerburg, Ohio 43011

Local map can be found at http://www.gracecenterburg.com/index_files/Page387.htm

For directions, you can use http://maps.yahoo.com/maps_result?addr=182+W+Houck+St.&csz=Centerburg%2C+OH&country=us&new=1&name=&qty=

Since this is a last-minute change, I am posting my business follow-me phone number in case you need direction details or need to call for any other reason. It is 614-260-6071.

Thanks for bearing with me on this. Look forward to seeing you all! I'm bringing my usual cheese and grapes, as they seem to be popular. Bring enough snacks to share among the kids.

aligreat

04-09-2006, 02:43 PM

How did it go? What worked? What would you change for next time? We all need to know how to do these things.

c01dunlap

04-09-2006, 10:29 PM

Well, Ali, thanks for asking! (I'm so shy you really have to draw me out, LOL). Of the people that were on the yes/maybe list, 3 families made it:

Sophie (2 1/2 yr. old) + Chris (yup, that would be me)
Marissa (3 yr. old) + Heather
J.* (3 yr. old boy) + Vonnie

2 families forgot (unusual for both), and the new family (Marie + kids) had a soccer game. It actually worked out very well, however. First, Jelani and Marissa both have birthdays coming up at the end of April, so we did birthday cupcakes. Vonnie & her son are both deaf, and it was a wonderful opportunity to actively sign and learn. By the end the playgroup, the kids were gleefully running around, chasing eachother, and generally eluding the adults quite well! Good thing there was one adult-per-child, or we still might be chasing. :rolleyes:

I have to say it was absolutely awesome! Vonnie was very patient with us and a terrific teacher. She never seemed to tire of the 'slow, please' and 'again, please' that popped up a variety of times. I was very appreciative, and felt like I learned a lot. I realize that many new signs might not make it to long-term memory for use immediately, but I might well understand them when I see them again. Vonnie also mentioned that she might be able to get several more deaf toddlers to come to the next playgroup. That would be great! Regardless, we certainly would love to have them back. :)

As to what to do differently, right now, I'd say nothing this time around. For the size and mix of group, it worked out pretty well to be more 'free form'. After the February playgroup (all hearing parents/kids), I had some additional ideas. See post http://www.signingtime.com/forums/showpost.php?p=4050&postcount=39 . Also, there is a couple of useful sticky threads in this forum that have some great ideas of what to do.

As an additional note, I gave Vonnie & J. a ride to/from. Sophie fell asleep on the way over, so when she woke up, she was greeted in ASL by Vonnie, and with a big grin + hand squeeze by J. sitting in the carseat beside her. I was surprised (and pleased) that she stayed silent for quite a while, and responded in kind with grins and such. Since I was driving, I didn't get to see if she signed much, but I think I only had to say/sign once or twice that, 'you have to talk with your hands, like with [cousin] Joy'. <proud momma :p >
__________________
* Forgot to get Vonnie's permission to post J's name on the forums.

c01dunlap

04-13-2006, 02:31 PM

All,

Next target date = Saturday, May 13th (2-4).

<< Location announced soon>>

Right now, we probably have:

Sophie (2 1/2 yr. old) & Chris
J. (3 yr. old) & Vonnie
Marissa (2 1/2 yr. old) & Heather
H.(1 1/2 yr. old) & Leah Ann

and possibly (unconfirmed):
Arika (2 1/2 yr. old), Carla & Brad (from Toledo area)
other deaf/Deaf toddlers & parents (extending invitations)

Come join us (every 2nd Saturday of the month)
Also, if it is your child's birth-month, let us know so we can do a mini-celebration!

c01dunlap

05-05-2006, 02:38 PM

Next playgroup (bring a snack to share with all kids):

Saturday May 13, 2006 (2pm - 4pm)
At the Westerville Electric Company.
139 E. Broadway Ave.
Westerville OH 43081-1507
(614) 901-6700 (business hours phone - not weekends)

http://maps.yahoo.com/maps_result?addr=139+E+Broadway+Ave.&csz=Westerville%2C+OH&country=us&new=1&name=&qty=

Come join us (every 2nd Saturday of the month)
Also, if it is your child's birth-month, let us know so we can do a mini-celebration!

c01dunlap

05-09-2006, 05:53 PM

Next playgroup:

Saturday May 13, 2006 (2pm - 4pm)
At the Westerville Electric Company.
139 E. Broadway Ave.
Westerville OH 43081-1507
(614) 901-6700 (business hours phone - not weekends)

http://maps.yahoo.com/maps_result?addr=139+E+Broadway+Ave.&csz=Westerville%2C+OH&country=us&new=1&name=&qty=

Come join us (every 2nd Saturday of the month)
Also, if it is your child's birth-month, let us know so we can do a mini-celebration!

Can post RSVP or email me c01dunlap@yahoo.com . Don't forget snacks to share with the kids. Look forward to seeing everyone!

BTW, right now, we probably have:

Sophie (2 1/2 yr. old) & Chris
J. (3 yr. old) & Vonnie
Marissa (3 yr. old) & Heather
H.(1 1/2 yr. old) & Leah Ann
S. (4 yr. old) & Kristy

and possibly (unconfirmed):
Arika (2 1/2 yr. old), Carla & Brad (from Toledo area)
other deaf/Deaf toddlers & parents (extending invitations)

c01dunlap

05-29-2006, 04:34 AM

Hope everyone is having a great Memorial Day weekend!

We had a fun time at the May playgroup, albeit with the same three families. We'd love to have some returning or new faces for June!! (I know, it was Mother's Day weekend; I missed that, but I still think that doing a predictable weekend will help us all get it on our calendars).

Once again, I owe you all pics, but haven't made the time to upload to photobucket. :o

Next Meeting:

Saturday, June 10th (NOT Father's Day, I'd like to note!!) 2-4pm
Westerville Electric Company

Will post the usual reminder in a week!

c01dunlap

06-05-2006, 10:57 AM

Next playgroup (bring a snack to share with all kids):

Saturday June 10, 2006 (2pm - 4pm)
At the Westerville Electric Company.
139 E. Broadway Ave.
Westerville OH 43081-1507
(614) 901-6700 (business hours phone - not weekends)

http://maps.yahoo.com/maps_result?addr=139+E+Broadway+Ave.&csz=Westerville%2C+OH&country=us&new=1&name=&qty=

Come join us (every 2nd Saturday of the month)
Also, if it is your child's birth-month, let us know so we can do a mini-celebration!

c01dunlap

06-08-2006, 03:27 AM

We hopefully have a couple of new families coming.

Right now, we have:

O. (16? mo. old) & Marie
Eric (2 yr. old) & Becky
Marissa (3 yr. old) & Heather
Jelani (3 yr. old) & Vonnie
Sophie (2 3/4 yr. old) & Chris

and possibly (unconfirmed):

twins (8 mo. old) & parents
Arika (2 1/2 yr. old), Carla & Brad (from Toledo area)
_________
* I don't post names without parental permission...

c01dunlap

06-12-2006, 05:41 AM

June Playgroup (attempt) Report:

I got several same-day cancellations, and I didn't have access to a computer to even post them. My OWN DD (& her cousing) was going to be quite late due to a 'bowling' birthday party disaster (long story - kids had fun, but alley couldn't get anything together, including having put the ice cream cups in the fridge rather than the freezer :eek: ).

Soooo... I got a chance to meet Marie & her DS Owen (what a cutie-pie!) and chat for a bit, but we did not have a playgroup. Marie, thanks for being such a good sport about it!! We look forward to seeing you in July (Saturday the 14th), along with several more families this time!

signing bug

06-15-2006, 08:52 AM

Hey there everyone in central Ohio.

I just got off the phone with Alysia at WOSU, our local PBS affiliate. I've called there every few weeks since the first of the year asking them to start carrying Signing Time! She said she documents and compiles requests for particular shows and forwards them to the TV director for consideration. They are at the end of the current fiscal year and start the new year July 1st. Let's do what we can to get in as many requests as possible and get them to carry ST by the end of 2006! If we can, maybe we could use that to get the Signing Time crew to visit central Ohio. We could have a huge party to celebrate!

Please send an e-mail to wosu@osu.edu requesting Singing Time be a part of WOSU's programming. Let's see how many requests we can submit. Post a copy of your request here to get the ball rolling and keep it rolling!

Thanks in advance for your support!

Go Buckeyes!

c01dunlap

06-15-2006, 09:03 AM

Also, send in your letters and pictures of your kiddo's signing to:

WOSU TV
Attn: Stacia Hentz, Television Program Manager
2400 Olentangy River Road
Columbus, OH 43210

(I haven't re-checked to see if Stacia is still the right person -- is that who you have, Melissa?)

c01dunlap

06-25-2006, 01:40 AM

Next playgroup (bring a snack to share with all kids):

Saturday July 14, 2006 (2pm - 4pm)
Location TBD

Come join us (every 2nd Saturday of the month)
Also, if it is your child's birth-month, let us know so we can do a mini-celebration!

c01dunlap

06-25-2006, 01:44 AM

Heather (& Marissa) tells us:

"[We] wanted to pass along another idea to get together though. Springfield is having a Summer Arts Festival, and this Wednesday June 28th at 2:00pm there is a performance of Beauty and the Beast by Cleveland SignStage. The performances are free and are held at an outdoor amphitheater. I haven't been there yet, but it is the 40th year for the festival. Here are the links to the pages Springfield Summer Arts Festival (http://www.springfieldartscouncil.org/festival-events-2006-b.htm) and SignStage of Cleveland (http://www.signstage.org/). I am planning on taking Marissa, and wanted to offer the opportunity for you to come if you could. Springfield is about an hour past our house [in Columbus]."

I'm VERY excited about this!! We plan to go, and hope that others will be able to join in the fun! I will, as Heather has suggested, invite Vonnie & Jelani (as well as my adult Deaf cousin Joy). Come along, bring a friend! I will brainstorm with Heather as to where we all could meet before the 2pm show.

c01dunlap

06-26-2006, 10:50 AM

From their webpage (http://www.springfieldartscouncil.org/festival-information.htm):

"SPECIAL SERVICES
• ASL sign interpretation is provided as indicated courtesy of The Springfield Foundation at the following events:
• PETER PAN (June 17)
• BEAUTY AND THE BEAST (June 28)
• ROBIN HOOD (July 1)
• MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING (July 27).
Other events may be added with a one week notice; call 937-324-2712. "

So, if you can't make it the Beauty and the Beast this Wednesday, there are a few other opportunities!!

c01dunlap

06-26-2006, 10:19 PM

Okay,

Anyone who wants to meet other "signers" from the ST! forum, playgroup and circle of friends before Beauty and the Beast, meet at the playground (visible from parking area) between 1pm and 1:30pm.

In case you didn't look at the website, the stage is covered, but the "audience" area is lawn / exposed to weather. You may want to bring blankets &/or lawn chairs to sit on for the show. The festival & show are free - they 'pass the hat' asking for donations to support the performers / show.

Look forward to seeing some of you there! I will definitely be there, as will Heather. Vonnie is seeing if a Deaf friend of hers wants to come also. Kids (& maybe some spouses) will, of course, be in tow. :p

c01dunlap

07-11-2006, 01:53 PM

Okay, got my dates off == this is indeed the 3rd Saturday, but we're still meeting!! Next playgroup (bring a snack to share with all kids):

Saturday July 15, 2006 (2pm - 4pm)
We will PROBABLY be meeting at:

Grace Lutheran Church
182 W. Houck Street
Centerburg, Ohio 43011

Local map can be found at http://www.gracecenterburg.com/index_files/Page387.htm

For directions, you can use http://maps.yahoo.com/maps_result?addr=182+W+Houck+St.&csz=Centerburg%2C+OH&country=us&new=1&name=&qty=

Since this is somewhat open to discussion, I am posting my business follow-me phone number in case you need direction details or need to call for any other reason. It is 614-260-6071.

Come join us (every 2nd Saturday of the month)
Also, if it is your child's birth-month, let us know so we can do a mini-celebration!

So far Vonnie & Jelani will be with me. I hope to have Marie back with DS in tow, and perhaps cnow & happyfrog can join in the fun and meet eachother as well as the Deaf family.

c01dunlap

07-12-2006, 03:09 PM

Several parents have indicated that they can't easily do weekends. So, I thought about perhaps trying to set up one in a couple of weeks sometime during the week. So... my question is:

Day or Evening?

Where? (part of town and suggested meeting place)

Day of Week?

In your feedback, please give as much information as possible. For example, must be after 4pm, can do any M,W. No Thursdays, Not the last Friday of the month. (not "real" for me).

SATURDAY IS STILL ON!! This would be in addition.

mslantz

07-12-2006, 03:13 PM

Hi!
We would LOVE a weekday playgroup. Any day of the week between say 9:30 and 4ish would be good. I will drive anywhere and would be willing to have "it" at my house Although because Mia is only 6 mos I am a little short on toys (smile). I know a lot of churches and librarys will allow non-for-profit groups to meet at their sites for free.
Thank you!
Michelle

kimberly

07-14-2006, 02:30 PM

I would definitely prefer a weekday playgroup. Our weekends are always so busy! Thursdays and Fridays are my most "free" days -- anytime between 10 and 4 is good for us...

c01dunlap

07-14-2006, 10:44 PM

c01dunlap

07-15-2006, 08:39 PM

Hi! Hope you manage to find this thread!

Jelani & Sophie had a terrific time meeting, playing & signing with your boys. Vonnie was tickled that the kids played so well together - we both really hope you make toone of the playgroups soon! Vonnie also said I could have made it easier by giving my email... oops! But, then again, there is only so much you can write on a business card in crayon! LOL.

Anyway, just wanted to say what a GREAT experience it is to have hearing kids show so much interest in playing with and communicating with Jelani. For as often as we all go out together, I don't see that nearly as often as *I* wish.

Thanks! Hope to see you again!

c01dunlap

07-18-2006, 06:44 AM

Haven't missed the posts about weekday opportunities. I'm waiting for a couple of people that expressed interest in PM or email. So far, I'm hearing Thurs or Fri between 10 and 4, with a volunteer to host at a home, perhaps. So...

Michelle, what part of town do you live in if we take you up on the home offer? I will add that we DEFINITELY want you to post "house rules" here so we can all be sure that we adults and our kiddos behave appropriately while there. As you noted, we can also find a centrally located public space.

If anyone doesn't want to post location details, perhaps just a N/S/E/W of downtown would help. We're way north (north of Polaris), so we always expect to travel. I know we have one mom in Newark (way East), who can't really afford to travel right now. If anyone is out that way, be sure to post/contact her if interested in playdates. We'll do a special one that direction to include her too.

c01dunlap

08-02-2006, 08:43 AM

Hi All!

In addition to our Playgroups thread here, I've started a new social thread under the OT Chit Chat forum. Check it out - it's "Central Ohioans w/ Deaf (or any!) kiddos getting to know eachother (Hi happyfrog!) (http://www.signingtime.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1585)". Isn't THAT a mouthful?

That way we can keep this thread on active playgroup stuff, and also have a place to start getting to know eachother online!

c01dunlap

08-02-2006, 08:47 AM

I lost track of time -- I had hoped to try for a weekday playgroup before the next weekend one. I don't know how far out people need for planning purposes. A week? Two weeks? More? Let me know!!

I think one thing I'd REALLY like to do is get us all together in the ST! chatrooms at a planned date & time. That way we can interactively discuss scheduling such a playgroup, as well as getting to know eachother a bit better. (I know, it's really hard to get a sense of what I'm like, since I post so rarely, ha ha. :rolleyes: )

I'll wait for a bit of feedback, then just set a date for the chat.

c01dunlap

08-10-2006, 03:19 AM

c01dunlap

08-11-2006, 01:01 PM

Next playgroup:

Saturday August 12, 2006 (2pm - 4pm)
At the Westerville Electric Company.
139 E. Broadway Ave.
Westerville OH 43081-1507
(614) 901-6700 (business hours phone - not weekends)

http://maps.yahoo.com/maps_result?addr=139+E+Broadway+Ave.&csz=Westerville%2C+OH&country=us&new=1&name=&qty=

Please do post if you plan to come. Again, in case of trouble, I can be reached via business cell phone (614) 260-6071.

Right now we have Vonnie & Jelani, and possibly a friend of her's daugher. Myself, Becca, Nathan, Noe and Galen. Anyone else? I am hopeful that we can continue to add to the group - I know summers are busy...

CNow

08-15-2006, 04:03 PM

Chris -

Sorry we weren't able to make it to the play group this weekend.

I did receive the note you left when you stopped by ACC. Thank you for thinking to write.

I would really love to meet everyone and provide Alex with the opportunity to 'play' with other ST kids.

Connie

Vonnie

08-31-2006, 05:36 PM

Ideas for next few fun with our Columbus playgroup:

Camping

Making adulta Hula Hoops for us Mamas and Fathers - http://www.hooping.org - what do you think?

Hosting at a home

Tie-Dyeing

Hay-rides and those country stuff when and wherever it's available

Any more? Please add! I am not sure if we should continue it here or via e-mail as a group?

Vonnie

c01dunlap

09-09-2006, 08:19 AM

All,

We'd not had anyone express interest for this weekend (9/9/2006), so we will NOT be having a playgroup today. We do, however, want to make good use of the fall weather, so we will be working on an event or two during September.

PLEASE either post in this thread or email me at c01dunlap @ yahoo . com (also found in my profile) if you are interested in any of the ideas (or have others!) Vonnie mentioned. My current 1st preference is the "Signing Camp" that she suggested - we would host out in the country at our land / cabin. Looking forward to perhaps tie dying (that can be an indoor event later, as the weather turns cooler). What do you all think?

c01dunlap

09-19-2006, 10:42 AM

All,

There is another thread that is dedicated to posting Deaf Events in your area (http://www.signingtime.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1923) that we can go to if we are interested in learning more ASL and getting to know more people in the Deaf community. Take a look, and keep your eyes peeled.

I am hoping to go to the next Deaf Coffee Chat (Third Friday of the Month). It sounds like a good one that would be open to all. Next one is October 20th, 7pm - 10pm. Anyone up for joining me?

c01dunlap

11-14-2006, 11:07 AM

If you haven't caught it in the General Discussions thread, see ST! Fans Gathering across State Lines... Come to Ohio (Columbus)! Dec. 9, 2006 (http://www.signingtime.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2198).

Plans currently include:

Friday, December 8th afternoon/evening
- meet publically whereever the "Signs" of Christmas carolers will be

Saturday, December 9th mid-day until we (adults) run out of steam :p
- meet in Centerburg for ST! 'party' get together
- bring snacks to share (maybe we want to do potluck meal?)

Sunday, December 10th
- anyone staying in the area is welcome to join us for church (Lutheran) & lunch at the local pizzeria afterwards
- out of towners will be hitting the road - hugs all around! :)

Check out the thread, and post there to let us know if you are coming to any or all of the activities. The more, the merrier!! We may not get a chance to meet this many ST! fans from so far away for a while.

c01dunlap

11-27-2006, 04:26 AM

Carla (cgzeiter) and Brad just had a baby boy (just before Thanksgiving)! They shared a few pics with me, including a very cute one with "big" sister Arika. :)

So very happy for you both. Congratulations, again!

c01dunlap

10-25-2007, 11:19 AM

Hi All,

I know there are some that are "subscribed" to this thread. We are starting up the Central Ohio Signing Time playgroup. At the moment, a couple of us have just picked a date, Saturday November 17th, for starters. We're looking to see who all is interested, so please either reply to one of the OH playgroup threads on http://www.signingtime.com/forums , send me an email (most of you have my email address) or a Private Message on the ST! forums (c01dunlap).

We are going to have a BLAST!

carenwithac

11-17-2007, 09:56 AM

OK, so this is my first time on any kind of internet message board/forum/chat group, so I think I'm all mixed up. Today (11/17) was a playgroup? I think I got last meetings' time mixed up with todays date. Anyway, it was obviously not at 10am today, since the conference room was full of businessmen in conference (can you sign OOPS?!!!)
I am totally interested in joining up with some folks here in the Columbus area, my 16 month old son is signing a little bit and I want to reinforce that through interaction with real live buddies, not just through the Signing Time DVDs (though those are great!). I'll try to get the facts straight for the next meeting....

c01dunlap

11-23-2007, 07:34 AM

... I think I'm all mixed up. Today (11/17) was a playgroup? I think I got last meetings' time mixed up with todays date. ... I'll try to get the facts straight for the next meeting....

Oh, dear! I see that you picked up the time of 10am from the 2005 post!! I will take some edit time to clarify what's old/new. I'm excited about your enthusiasm -- we'll probably give it a go in January, after the crazy Christmas season.

BTW, since you're in the area, The "Signs" of Christmas (http://www.signsofchristmas.org/) performances are really awesome! From their website, the scoop is:

PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE

December 1
4:00 Colonial Candy Shoppe
6:00 & 7:00 Norka Futon, Gallery Hop

December 7
7:00 Easton Town Center

December 8
8:45 Franklin Park Conservatory
11:00 Polaris Fashion Place
1:00 Ohio Association for the Deaf Blind Christmas Party (Private)
3:00 Marshall ’s on Bethel Road
6:00 Nationwide Arena: Blue Jackets VS. Minnesota Wild

December 9
9:30 Union Grove Baptist Church
1:00 Nationwide Children’s Hospital (Private)
3:00 Worthington Square Mall
5:00 St Paul Catholic Church
7:00 Pope John XXIII Church

December 14
7:00 Easton Town Center

December 15
9:30 Columbus Colony Elderly Care
11:00 Columbus Colony Housing
1:00 Westerville Public Library
3:00 Worthington Christian Village
5:00 Westland Mall
7:00 State Auto Nativity Scene

December 16
10:30 Westerville Church of the Nazarene
2:00 Upper Arlington Public Library
4:00 Tuttle Mall
6:00 The Church Triumphant