Our Mission Statement
"Our mission is to bring a better understanding to parents,
educators and children of the value of visual communication
early in life. Promoting ASL as part of a dual language to the
hearing community can act as a bridge to more meaningful
communication in our homes, our schools and our communities."
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What is ASL and how is this an important tool for you and your child??
ASL is, of course, American Sign Language. ASL is not only an indispensable tool for the deaf and/or seriously hearing impaired, but it is now a widely accepted and innovative way of communicating with your hearing child as well. Imagine ... having the ability to communicate with your baby before he or she is able to speak words! Research shows that preverbal infants can communicate through the use of sign language long before they can verbalize their needs. Baby sign language can enhance bonding, and reduce your child's frustration in that he or she will be able to tell you what they want or need rather than you trying to "take a guess" at what they are trying to tell you. It also accelerates their verbal development and strengthens their cognitive skills.
At My Smart Hands of Maine we will give you the skills and the knowledge you will need to communicate with your preverbal, hearing baby. Come along and take a class with My Smart Hands™ and learn how to sign with your baby! Learn how signs taken from American Sign Language (ASL) can help you engage your child in two-way communication much earlier than you thought possible.
Below is a video of our founder, Laura Berg, and her daughter Fireese at 12 months old showing how well she is able to communicate with the use of Baby Sign Language. For more information and for a full list of My Smart Hands™ Instructors in North America please visit www.mysmarthands.com.
Imagine having the ability to communicate with your child this way! You can ... take a class with My Smart Hands of Maine and experience it for yourself.
