Niagara County Department of Health announces new session of 'Happy Talk Song and Sign' at new public health building

Submitted by the Niagara County Department of Health

The Niagara County Department of Health, children with special needs division, is pleased to announce an upcoming session of “Happy Talk Song and Sign.” This free, community-based parent-child group is designed to support early communication and language development in young children through songs, simple signs, and evidence-based play.

The seven-week session will take place from 9:30-10:30 a.m. Tuesdays, Feb. 10 through March 24, at 55 Stevens St., Lockport. The program is free, but registration is required.

“Happy Talk Song and Sign” is led by Kourtney Gerstung, M.S., C.C.C.-S.L.P., a speech-language pathologist with the Niagara County Department of Health. Using a curriculum created by Christina Pagel-Noon, C.C.C.-S.L.P., founder of Happy Talk Song and Sign LLC, the program teaches caregivers how to incorporate simple signs and gestures into everyday routines to reduce frustration and boost early literacy. 

“The response to our initial sessions was overwhelmingly positive,” said Janice Jenosheck, early intervention official and director of children with special needs. “Seeing the success of the first group confirmed that families are looking for these proactive, supportive opportunities. ‘Happy Talk’ doesn't just give parents practical tools; it creates a welcoming community where children can learn and connect.”

The move to the new Stevens Street location allows the NCDOH to better accommodate the growing interest in these services.

“We are thrilled to host ‘Happy Talk Song and Sign’ in our new public health administration building,” Public Health Director Fauzia Khan said. “This space significantly increases our ability to serve the public, expand programming, and create more opportunities for families to access high-quality, preventative supports in a centralized, welcoming location.”

“Happy Talk Song and Sign” is free and open to the community, but registration is required. Families can register online at https://nchappytalkfeb2026.eventbrite.com.

For more information, check the department website at https://www.niagaracounty.gov/departments/a-f/children_with_special_needs/happy_talk_song_and_sign.php, or contact Jenosheck at 716-278-1991.