Building upon the popular trend of babies learning to communicate by sign language, Scholastic Storybook Treasures has launched a new American Sign Language DVD series helping to extend sign language learning for children ages 2 to 9. The newest release, FIVE LITTLE MONKEYS JUMPING ON THE BED…AND MORE GREAT CHILDREN’S STORIES brings beloved children’s books to rich life with voice narration, sign language and catchy musical scores. Stories include the title tale about everyone’s favorite primates, along with “Little Quack” and Mercer Meyer’s “There’s Something in My Attic”. The DVD also includes sign language vocabulary, comprehension quizzes, alphabet finger-spelling and read-along.

Studies show that when children learn sign language at an early age they have increased language acquisition and educators often recommend sign language to help children develop fine motor skills. The new DVD series has been created to enhance sign language learning and increase comprehension skills through vocabulary lessons and an interactive quiz for each story.

From one of the most trusted brands in entertainment and education, this new series was developed by parents Missy Keast and her husband/partner Dave Victorson who are also ASL and education experts. Keast was born deaf and is known as the “Shakespeare of Sign Language” because of her eloquent storytelling and communications skills.

Our Review:  This is one of Kaitlyn’s favorite stories, so I knew she would enjoy hearing it read with the accompanying illustrations.   I think even for kids not learning sign language, it’s a good way to introduce them to the idea that there’s a language that deaf people know, and they can tell a story with their hands. I appreciate Scholastic giving me the opportunity to introduce Kaitlyn to the idea of sign language. Who knows, she may want to learn it some day!

Pick up Five Little Monkeys Jumping On The Bed…And More Great Children’s Stories where Scholastic DVDs are sold. Suggested retail price is $12.95.