Camp teaches kids the language of inclusion
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STEUBENVILLE -- Children attending this week’s Sign Language Camp at the Sycamore Youth Center discovered that learning a new language can be exciting, interactive and full of laughter.
The four-day camp, led by instructors Jess Cheslar and Megan Reister, gave students an introduction to American Sign Language through games, songs, literacy activities and hands-on learning.
The camp introduced children to the basics of sign language while helping them better understand deaf culture and communication.
On the opening day, campers learned signs related to feelings, colors and the alphabet while discussing terms associated with hearing loss, including “deaf,” “hard of hearing” and “person with hearing loss.” Learning continued through interactive games that reinforced vocabulary, and campers took home color words to practice with their families.
The second day focused on building confidence through movement and repetition. Campers reviewed the alphabet and numbers one through 10, learned to sign the children’s song “Five Little Chickadees” and participated in games that encouraged teamwork while strengthening their signing skills. They also practiced conversational phrases to prepare for the next day’s activities.
By the third day, students were enthusiastically signing the names of animals through relay races and interactive group games. According to the instructors, campers dramatically improved their speed, reducing one signing challenge from 19 seconds to just 2.9 seconds by the end of the activity.
Literacy was woven throughout the camp as students explored the classic children’s book “Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?” -- pairing animal vocabulary with sign language to reinforce reading and communication skills. Additional games, including Heads Up, Seven Up and Red Light, Green Light, helped campers continue practicing fingerspelling and vocabulary in an engaging environment.
Throughout the week, children took home practice sheets to encourage continued learning with their families between sessions.
Sycamore Youth Center Executive Director Bobbyjon Bauman said the camp reflects the organization’s commitment to offering unique educational opportunities that help young people grow academically, socially and personally.
“One of our goals at Sycamore is to expose young people to experiences they may not otherwise have the opportunity to enjoy,” Bauman said. “Learning sign language not only teaches a valuable life skill, but it helps children develop greater empathy, inclusion and an appreciation for communicating with people of all abilities. We are grateful to Jess Cheslar and Megan Reister for sharing their expertise and making learning so much fun for our students.”
The Sign Language Camp is one of 24 free summer camps offered by the Sycamore Youth Center this year, providing area children opportunities to explore everything from the arts and sciences to gardening, athletics, history and life skills.
Organizers hope participants will continue practicing their new signing skills and carry forward a greater appreciation for inclusive communication long after the final class ends.