Why sign? -- The developing child, the developing brain -- Signing and early literacy -- Signing in action -- Signing at home -- Staying safe and having fun -- Out and about -- Concepts.
Summary:
Appropriate for adults who are completely new to signing, this authoritative guide on sign language helps them engage with children up to age five, regardless of their hearing ability. Each of the eight chapters contain a variety of activities, such as games, finger plays, songs, and crafts, which help children develop language learning, improve communication and self-expression, and raise their self-esteem. A ll vocabulary comes from American Sign Language (ASL), a language with formalized grammatical conventions that stimulates language centers of the brain. Illustrations of the relevant signs are prominently featured throughout the book, and the activities have all been tested in the author's own "Little Hands Signing" classes since 2006. The practical guidance is perfect for adults new to signing as well as those familiar with ASL and wanting ideas to enhance learning and communication with their babies.
This resource is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by State Library of Iowa.