Can signing make you a better teacher?

early childhood educator

We often talk about the benefits of signing in terms of the benefits it has for children: less frustration, bigger vocabularies, increased learning and retention – the list goes on. Can signing benefit teachers, too?

Dr. Claire Vallotton from Michigan State University conducted several studies to explore this question. Careful observation of teacher behavior revealed that early child educators are more responsive to preverbal children when the children are using signs. When children sign, teachers are better at:

  • making eye contact
  • talking with children
  • being warm and affectionate
  • responding to children’s needs

In another study, teachers said they know the children better, and they pay closer attention when children are using signs. See research

Signing Resources for Teachers

Signing Time Preschool Program
Signing Time Preschool and Childcare Program (ages 0-3)

Signing Time Classroom Edition

Signing Time Classroom Edition (ages 3-8)

Signing Time Board Books
Signing Time Board Books (all ages)

 

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