Teaching in early childhood takes heart, courage, resilience, and, might I say, a lot of creativity. I have advocated for play-based learning and using American Sign Language (ASL) to unlock the learning potential in young children for 20 years. ASL is a gift from the deaf community that supports hearing children's language, social-emotional, cognitive, and even fine motor skills. This is the most versatile strategy I have ever used in an early childhood classroom. In addition, using ASL in the classroom enhances the adult-child bond by creating brain-based early experiences that provide nurturing and positive connections. PLUS, families LOVE it! Communicating with a young child at an early age is a priceless gift. In my experience, it reduces the stress of caring for non-verbal children with a limited vocabulary.

I have identified six ways to enhance learning with ASL to support the development of numeracy and letter knowledge: 

1.      Identify Numbers while Counting Objects:

 a.      ASL provides an additional visual representation of numbers. When children sign the numbers, they use their visual and kinesthetic senses—creating a multi-sensory approach to learning.

 b.      Incorporate ASL signs during counting activities to enhance numerical understanding. For example, say and sign simultaneously "1," "2," "3," and so on as you count objects together.

2.      Create Opportunities for Sequencing, Ordering, and Matching:

a.      ASL helps children understand the order of numbers. Linking ASL signs in sequence reinforces the concept of numerical progression.

b.      Use ASL signs to create a "number train." Line up number cards or objects in order, signing each number as you go. This activity reinforces numerical concepts.

c.      Use ASL to support children's matching skills. Have children match the written numeral with the corresponding ASL sign. For example, show a written "5" and have children sign "5" using their fingers.

3.      Recognize Letters and Sounds through Word Exploration and Curiosity.      As children grasp individual letters and their sounds, they're ready to explore word formation. Understanding that letters combine to create words is a crucial step.

b.      Provide ample opportunities for children to discover words. Encourage genuine curiosity about language and help young children expand their vocabulary by using ASL to support language development.

c.      Create literacy centers to allow experimentation with spelling patterns, number words, and high-frequency words. Encourage children to finger spell words using individual letters to spell words or numbers. For example, teach children to finger spell numbers (e.g., "T-H-R-E-E" for 3) alongside the ASL sign for that number.

4.      Enhance Brain Growth and Memory Storage:

a.      Research indicates that using ASL strengthens neural connections and enhances memory storage.

b.      Children learning numbers and letters through ASL create multiple memory pathways, reinforcing their understanding.

5.      Make Use of Consistency and Repetition:

a.      Consistent use of ASL is essential. Repetition helps reinforce learning.

b.      Model ASL consistently, whether you're counting, spelling, or singing number and letter songs.

c.      What we see and what we hear are stored in different areas. Using ASL to enhance learning allows young children to retrieve stored knowledge from multiple areas in the brain.

6.      Demonstrate through Modeling and Enthusiasm:

a.      Be a role model. Use ASL with enthusiasm and joy.

b.      Sing number and letter songs in ASL, and don't forget to involve other adults.

c.      Above all, Have FUN!