Sign language class enhances communication in newborns and toddlers

There's nothing more frustrating than trying to communicate with a toddler and not understanding exactly what they are trying to say. They simply don't have the words to fully express their "wants" and "needs."

Teaching children sign language could greatly enhance communication, though, said Laurie Graziano, trained facilitator for the Kindermusik learning program.

Graziano recently launched a Sign and Sing class at the Suzuki School of Westport for children ages six months to three years.

Also included in the Suzuki School's curriculum are Kindermusik classes for newborns, ages six to 18 months, and "Our Time," a program for parents and toddlers ages 18 months to three years.

Dr. Andrew Smith, director of the Suzuki School of Westport, said that, as "one of the oldest and most established" music programs for young children, Kindermusik fits in well with the Suzuki method.

"I also like the fact that they are teaching sign language along with music," Smith added.

Graziano explained that Sign and Sing classes are taught in a fun, low-key environment.

"We try to create a play-date atmosphere," she said. "We bring out toys and let the children have time to play with their parents and relax. When we sing songs, we teach the children the appropriate sign language that corresponds to the song's lyrics."

The 45-minute class meets on Thursdays at 11:15 a.m.

According to Kindermusik, sign language helps children to become verbal. Graziano cited a study stating that children who use sign language understand 25 signs and 16 words at 12 months old as opposed to non-signers who typically know only one or two words.

During the first class, children are introduced to the song, "A Bear Went Over The Mountain" because it is familiar to many families. "We learn how to sign general words in the song, such as `bear,' `over' and `mountain,'" Graziano explained. "We don't try to teach children a full translation."

Structured play activities, such as bubbles, are also part of each gathering.

Kindermusik teaches children to develop active listening skills, too.

"Last semester we focused on water sounds," Graziano said. "The theme for our spring classes is transportation so we will talk about the sounds of a train, a boat and a plane, for example."

Graziano plays different sounds and ask the youngsters to identify what they are hearing. "I then ask if they could make the sounds themselves," she said. "It's really a lot of fun. The kids are so easy to teach because they are interested in the whole program."

Overall, Kindermusik's philosophy is to teach an appreciation for music in a child-centered, age-appropriate and fun environment, Graziano noted.

"Kindermusik is concerned with the total growth and development of the whole child, and its goal is to foster musical children rather than to produce children who are musicians," she said.

A resident of Stamford, Graziano said that it was her three children who first introduced her to the Kindermusik methodology. They received Kindermusik classes while attending a local preschool and, based upon their success and obvious enjoyment, she trained to be one of the program's facilitators.

"I saw firsthand the benefits of the program," Graziano said.

When children enroll for the Kindermusik class at the Suzuki School of Westport, each family will receive a reusable backpack or tote bag filled with flashcards that show both adults and children signing words. There are also musical CDs, instruments and activity books for children and parents to enjoy together while they are at home.

For more information about Kindermusik classes, contact the Suzuki School of Music, 212 Post Road West, in Westport, at (203) 227-9474.