Aventura en la jungla en lenguaje de señas

Hello, my name is Mischel.  I’m a dedicated teacher and strong advocate for American Sign Language. I was raised with an aunt and two cousins who are deaf. Growing up in a deaf and hearing environment gave me a great appreciation for other forms of communication. When I became a teacher, I wanted to share the wonderful world of sign language with students.

As an innovative early childhood educator and former teacher with 30 years’ experience, I have taught in public schools, charter schools, and Head Start programs teaching students ages 4-10 years old. 

As a certified sign language instructor, I have been incorporating sign language in my early childhood curriculum for more than 20 years to promote literacy.  Although I incorporate sign language in my curriculum, I don't teach American Sign Language (ASL), which has its own grammar, vocabulary and syntax. 

My passion and expertise are combining ASL vocabulary, the manual alphabet and fingerspelling into my curriculum to expand alphabet knowledge, improve spelling, build vocabulary and enhance social/emotional development.

 ASL is a beautiful language that provides a multi-sensory approach that accommodates different learning styles and allow children to use both sides of their brain, creating multiple pathways for future learning, that is why I love sharing the gift of sign language with students. 

In addition to academic benefits learning ASL provides students an opportunity to be introduced to deaf culture and gain an appreciation for another form of communication.
I believe learning should be fun. My goal is to provide a positive, safe learning environment with classes that are intentional and inclusive and designed to provide engaging sign and play activities that encourage curiosity and exploration. 

My approach to learning is hands-on with positive reinforcement and high praise for any effort made by students. I work hard to make the class fun and exciting while getting students comfortable using their hands and facial expression to communicate in sign language.

 I use the SEE – SAY – SIGN approach to learning, I show a picture of the letter to be signed, so students can see it, say it (i.e. letter c), then sign it (i.e. letter c).  We will have fun while we learn.

When I'm not developing curriculum and teaching, I enjoy reading, watching movies, listening to 'oldies' music and especially enjoy playing games, such as ASL Bingo with friends and family. 

I look forward to getting acquainted with your child and sharing the gift of sign language.