Learn Baby Sign Language in New York
If you are ready to join a group setting where you can connect with parents who are passionate about the intellectual and emotional development of their babies why not join us for multi-session face-to-face baby sign language classes. Our groups meet at various locations across the city or we can arrange for a group class designed exclusively for your play group or daycare facility.
About the Baby Sign Language Instructor
Melissa Van Wijk has been teaching babies and parents how to bond through signing for over a decade. Thousands of babies in Manhattan and surrounding boroughs have learned about the joys of signing and the benefits of early pre-verbal communications thanks to Melissa’s engaging teaching style. Melissa holds a Master’s in Dance Education from New York University where she also attended American Sign Language classes.
In Melissa’s own words: “My background is in dance. I am a dance educator and work primarily with special needs children in various public schools throughout New York. I have been fortunate enough to have taught for New York City Ballet, Young Audiences, The Children’s Aid Society, and Gymtime Rhythm and Glues at York Avenue Pre-School among others. Over the years I have taught in both Public and Private schools in Early Childhood, Nursery, Pre-School, After School programs, and K-12. My students range in age from 7 months old to age 21, and they include wheel chair drivers, students on the autistic spectrum, students with learning disabilities, students with an intellectual challenge, gifted students, and many others. For five years I volunteered at Mt. Sinai Children’s Hospital in New York doing play therapy in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, which was an extraordinary experience. Currently I volunteer with my certified therapy dog, Easter, at nursings home in NYC, which is a surprisingly rewarding experience every time we go”.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Often Do Classes Begin?
Melissa hosts an average of two sessions per month. She is also able to arrange for privately held sessions tailored to the specific needs of your group.
How Much Will I Pay for Baby Sign Language Classes?
One-day baby sign language workshops start at $50 but most parents love Melissa’s five-session introduction to baby sign language. You can also schedule a webcam session where Melissa will join you in the comfort of your own home and guide you and your baby as you discover the basics of teaching and learning baby sign language.
Does Melissa Teach Advanced Baby Sign Language Classes?
If you have a signing superstar Melissa has experience taking parents to the next level and helping them transition from signs into verbal skills such as enunciation and forming of basic phrases in combination with signs as well as songs and dancing.
How to Contact Melissa?
You may contact Melissa to inquire about upcoming classes at [email protected]
What Kind of Materials Does Melissa Use?
Melissa provides her students with a variety of digital and printed materials. Depending on the duration of your group class you will have the option to purchase a Baby Sign Language Kit specifically tailored to the needs of your family. Take a look at all the options available:
