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Pick. This video/DVD series is a breath of
fresh air. The goal is to teach American Sign Language (ASL)
to children, and the method is effective and positive. This
sixth volume in the Signing Time series, Signing Time!
Volume 6: My Favorite Things, focuses on teaching the
signs of words for colors, fruits, and activities.
Catchy
songs and sound effects, a vibrant instructor (Rachel
Coleman), and plenty of eager children are featured on this
cheerful video. Short animated interludes add a bit of
variety to the format. Signs for words like
"yellow", "strawberry", "sit",
and "walk" are demonstrated by the instructor, and
explained as well. For example, after demonstrating the sign
for the color "orange", viewers are told,
"It's like you're squeezing an orange under your
chin." After this, live-action clips help reinforce the
newly-taught sign. These clips feature children
demonstrating the sign along with visuals of the particular
fruit, color, or activity.
The
video's songs are truly bright and fun. Each one has a
shiningly positive message to convey, such as a song that
reminds kids to have five servings of fruits and vegetables
a day.
The DVD
edition auto-starts, which is one of our favorite features
for DVDs designed for kids. Users can skip to the menu if
desired by pushing the Menu button. Scene selection, songs,
and special features are options on the DVD edition.
The
videos in the series can be used to teach ASL to children as
young as toddlers. Many families opt to teach their toddlers
sign language in order to offer them an alternate way of
expressing themselves before they are developmentally able
to do so effectively through speech. Of course, the easier
it is for young children to express themselves, the less
frustrated they will be! Some families make up their own
signs, but learning such a popular language as ASL does make
a lot of sense. We heartily recommend the Signing Time! series.
Other titles available in the series:
DVDs:
Signing Time: An American Sign Language (ASL) Video for Children
Signing Time! Volume 2: Playtime Signs
Signing Time! Volume 3: Everyday Signs
Signing Time! Volume 4: Family, Feelings & Fun
Signing Time! Volume 5: ABC Signs
Videos:
Signing Time: An American Sign Language (ASL) Video for Children
Signing Time! Volume 2: Playtime Signs - American Sign Language (ASL)
Signing Time! Volume 3: Everyday Signs - American Sign Language (ASL)
Signing Time! Volume 4: Family, Feelings & Fun
Signing Time! Volume 5: ABC Signs
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