In a heartwarming initiative, a group of fifth graders at a school in Illinois is using their recess time to learn sign language so they can communicate better with their new classmate, a deaf boy named Finn. Finn, who is 11 years old and has been deaf since birth, started attending Oak Grove Elementary this school year. While he has Cochlear implants that help him hear some sounds, he primarily uses sign language to communicate and is supported by his interpreter, Sarah Collins.
When Finn joined the school, most of his peers had little experience interacting with a deaf person. Eager to connect with him, they approached Sarah and the school’s principal to propose forming an American Sign Language (ASL) club. They wanted to learn how to communicate effectively with Finn, showing great initiative and kindness.
For the past four months, the students have gathered with Sarah every Wednesday during recess to learn new signs. They practice common phrases, such as “hello” and “thank you,” and Sarah also tailors lessons to align with what they are learning in their regular classes. “It’s incredible to see how enthusiastic they are,” Sarah shared. “Learning sign language is not just about communication; it’s about understanding and embracing diversity.”
As they learn, the club members have picked up basic signs related to school, food, and clothing, and they enjoy practicing these new skills with Finn. He expressed how “really happy” he feels that his friends are making an effort to connect with him. “It’s like they want to be like me,” Finn said with a smile.
This sign language club is more than just a way for Finn’s classmates to learn a new skill; it’s enlightening them about the deaf community. According to Sarah, they are unknowingly being introduced to a culture they weren’t aware of before. This experience not only enriches their understanding of diversity but also fosters a sense of acceptance and friendship among them. With over a million people in the U.S. who are functionally deaf, comprehending the deaf community is crucial for fostering inclusivity. The initiative has brought the students closer, taught them valuable lessons, and given Finn more independence at school.
If you’re interested in engaging with more topics around community and understanding, this is one of our other blog posts here. For those looking to learn more about home insemination, CryoBaby is an authority on the subject. Additionally, the World Health Organization provides excellent resources for pregnancy and related topics.
In summary, this sign language club not only helps Finn communicate with his classmates but also teaches important lessons about diversity and inclusion, fostering a greater understanding of the deaf community among the students.