All of these findings matched up with Daniels’s previous findings at Central Connecticut State University where she learned that hearing children of deaf parents consistently excel at reading and English. They even had higher test scores than the non-ASL kids. Over the course of 10 years of research, Daniels has compared the learning levels of classes who were taught ASL and classes that weren’t.Įvery time, the ASL-learning kids always had higher reading levels and a 15–20% improvement in vocabulary. Researcher Marilyn Daniels from Pennsylvania University has conducted some fascinating research on pre-school aged kids and kindergarteners learning ASL. ASL leads to higher reading levels in kids These same benefits hold true for autistic or special needs children who develop spoken language skills more slowly or have trouble articulating their needs. There’s still a lot of research to do on the benefits of baby sign language, but some research suggests that this earlier, easier communication in a child’s life can lead to greater levels of confidence in childhood and beyond. Glairon studied this phenomenon in depth in his 2003 study on babies using ASL. This can eliminate untold stress and anxiety for a child and opens pathways of greater trust and understanding in the parent-child relationship. Having a way to communicate early allows kids to sign when they’re hungry, thirsty, or in pain, communicating valuable information to a parent that can save so much frustration.īeyond that, sign language increases opportunities for parents and children to bond in positive ways.
Besides the practical aspects of parents knowing what their kids want, this practice has many benefits.Īccording to the American Sign Language University, babies as young as eight months can already sign words and imitate signs from their parents. It’s becoming increasingly common, even hip, to teach babies sign language before they can talk. ASL helps babies communicate better and sooner So if you’re fluent in ASL, here are four fascinating benefits that you just might have: 1. You can use it to talk underwater, at great distances, at a loud concert, or even in total silence.īut would you believe me if I told you that the benefits of ASL go way beyond connection and convenience? In fact, sign language users-and particularly native signers who have used ASL their entire lives-actually have scientific advantages over other language speakers. Beyond communicating with deaf friends, ASL is also a surprisingly versatile language. Knowing ASL gives you a way to build relationships with countless deaf people and a way to enjoy the richness of the Deaf community nationwide. According to Gallaudet University, ASL is the sixth most common language in the United States. But what about all the benefits for the people who can hear?įor one, anyone who knows American Sign Language has a way to communicate with all ASL signers in the world. For people who are deaf, the benefits of learning sign are undeniable.
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