| Sign language is a visual gestural language used by many Deaf and
Hard of Hearing people. Sign languages are complete languages capable of expressing
both concrete and abstract concepts. Nearly every country has its own national Sign
language, and there are often several dialects within a country. American Sign Language (ASL) grew from a formalization of an extensive home sign system on the island of Martha's Vinyard near Massachusetts. The population of the island was approximately 40% Deaf. Out of necessity, all the members of the community used Sign Language to communicate. Laurent Clerc, a Deaf teacher of the Deaf from France, visited the island with Thomas Gallaudet and recognized the richness of the local language. By combining the grammatical rules of French Sign Language to the local system, Clerc firmly established ASL as a complete and fully structured language. |
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| Educationally, Sign Language was traditionally used only with
severe to profound hearing loss. Choosing sign language as the primary language doesn't
mean that your child cannot learn to speak. For many children, the use of sign language
reduces frustration, and allows them to learn that communication has a purpose. Like any
of these options, sign language requires a strong commitment from the family. The choice
of Sign Language also connects your child to the Deaf Community. This provides them with a
sense of belonging and joins them to a rich cultural heritage. For more information, contact: |
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