Sign language courses offered at SCCC

Newton - American Sign Language (ASL) is a complete, complex language that employs signs made with the hands and other movements, including facial expressions and postures of the body. It is the first language of many deaf North Americans, and one of several communication options available to deaf people. According to the National Institute on Deafness and other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), ASL is said to be the fourth most commonly used language in the United States. Sussex County Community College is pleased to offer two courses by Instructor Lisa Fernley of Signs of the Time Consulting, LLC, relating to ASL. A beginner class in American Sign Language will offer not only a history and introduction to the deaf culture, but also an opportunity to learn finger spelling. Learn to actually communicate effectively. This six-session, 12-hour course begins Tuesday, Feb. 13 and costs $120. Additionally, Fernley will offer ABC Sign with Me Educator’s Series. This series is designed to inform and teach the importance and benefits of using sign language with young children from infants though school age children. Teaching sign has rapidly become a well-known method of teaching early communication skills, and years of research has proven that using sing language with young children allows for earlier verbalization and increases a child’s ability to express their emotions. This four-session; eight-hour course begins Tuesday, April 3 and costs $79. For details and registration, call 973-300-2143 or visit our website at www.sussex.edu/cce.