The North Bend Public Library is inviting parents to a free,  one-hour workshop introducing parents and caregivers to the benefits of signing with hearing babies and toddlers.

The workshop will be held at 7 p.m. Tuesday at the library, 1800 Sherman Ave.

Research shows that babies and toddlers who are taught basic American Sign Language, in addition to spoken language, talk sooner, a press release said. They also have larger vocabularies, show more interest in books, engage in more sophisticated play, experience less frustration and crying, have fewer tantrums and develop a closer bond with their parents and siblings.

They can tell their parents if they have an earache, when their diaper needs changing, or that they’d like to look at a book.

Children’s Librarian Sara Simpkins will teach adults how to get started signing and introduce them to the large selection of additional resources available for checking out at the library. A variety of free handouts will be available, including a 50-sign illustrated dictionary.

Parents are asked to leave their mobile babies and toddlers at home so that everyone in attendance can give full attention to the material being presented. The workshop will be repeated in October.

For more information about this and other library programs for children and parents, drop by the library or call 756-0400. The library is open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday; from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday and Friday; and from noon to 5 p.m. Saturday. The library is closed Sundays during summer