At Blossoms Nursery, we’re excited to participate in British Sign Language (BSL) Week from 17th to 23rd March 2025. This annual event, organised by the British Deaf Association (BDA), commemorates the UK Government’s recognition of BSL as an official language in 2003. As we approach this special week, we’re eager to share our plans and highlight the importance of inclusive communication in early years education.
Why BSL Matters in Early Years
At Blossoms Nursery, we believe that fostering inclusive communication from an early age is crucial for children’s development. Introducing BSL to young children not only supports those who are deaf or hard of hearing but also enhances communication skills for all children. Research shows that early exposure to sign language can boost cognitive development, improve visual-spatial skills, and promote empathy and understanding of diverse communication needs.
Our BSL Week Activities
Throughout BSL Week, we’ll be incorporating a variety of engaging activities designed to introduce our little ones to the beauty and functionality of sign language:
- BSL Storytelling Sessions: We’ll host daily storytelling sessions using BSL, introducing children to classic tales and new stories through sign language.
- Sign Language Songs: We’ll learn and perform popular nursery rhymes using BSL, combining music, movement, and sign language for a multi-sensory learning experience.
- Fingerspelling Fun: Children will learn the BSL alphabet through interactive games and activities, starting with spelling their own names.
- BSL Nature Trail: We’ll take our learning outdoors, creating a nature trail where children can learn signs for different plants, animals, and natural elements they encounter.
- BSL Art Projects: Children will create artwork inspired by BSL, such as handprint art representing different signs or colorful posters featuring BSL alphabet signs.
- “Guess the Sign” Games: We’ll play interactive games where children try to guess the meaning of different BSL signs, encouraging active participation and learning.
Involving Families in BSL Learning
We believe that family involvement is key to reinforcing new skills and fostering inclusive communication at home. Here’s how parents and carers can join in:
- Practice basic signs at home with your child, such as greetings, colors, and common objects.
- Attend our end-of-week BSL showcase, where children will demonstrate what they’ve learned.
- Use our take-home BSL activity packs, which include fingerspelling charts and simple sign language games to play as a family.
Beyond BSL Week: Ongoing Commitment to Inclusive Communication
Our celebration of BSL doesn’t end with BSL Week. At Blossoms Nursery, we’re committed to integrating sign language into our daily activities throughout the year. This ongoing approach includes:
- Regular BSL circle time activities
- Incorporating BSL signs into our daily routines, such as meal times and transitions
- Displaying BSL posters and visual aids around the nursery
- Offering BSL training opportunities for our staff to enhance their skills
The Importance of Early BSL Exposure
Recent campaigns, such as the one launched by the British Deaf Association during Sign Language Week 2024, emphasize the critical need for early access to BSL for deaf children. While our focus is on introducing BSL to all children, we recognize the particular importance for those who may be deaf or hard of hearing.
By exposing all children to BSL from an early age, we’re not only enhancing their communication skills but also fostering an inclusive environment where diverse forms of communication are valued and celebrated.
Join Us in Celebrating BSL Week
We invite all our Blossoms Nursery families to join us in embracing British Sign Language during this special week and beyond. Whether you’re new to BSL or have prior experience, there’s always more to learn and explore in the world of sign language.
For more information about our BSL Week activities or to learn how you can support your child’s BSL learning journey at home, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Together, we can open new doors of communication for our little ones and contribute to a more inclusive society.
Let’s make BSL Week 2025 a truly memorable celebration of language, inclusivity, and the joy of communication!
