Using sign language during library storytimes is a great way to communicate with babies and toddlers and to broaden the appeal of storytimes of your storytimes!  Check out these great resources from storyteller and nationally certified American Sign Language interpreter Kathy MacMillan to help you get started!

Background Reading:

Signing with Babies: http://storiesbyhand.wordpress.com/category/resources-for-signing-with-babies/

Benefit of Teaching Young Kids Sign Language: http://www.livestrong.com/article/217439-benefit-of-teaching-young-kids-sign-language/

American Sign Language: http://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/hearing/asl.asp

Handouts:

http://www.slideshare.net/ALATechSource/sign-language-sampleshandout

Kathy’s Videos on YouTube:

• Bounce: Taking Turns: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yYkJcjlxZuE
• Nursery Rhyme Activity: Jack Be Nimble: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cS_XURvuMQA
• Song: I Took a Walk: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y_psFj-5YHQ
• Flannelboard Song: Three Jellyfish: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3t9zAvJ2kp0
• Song: Hello/Goodbye Babies/Friends: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LrpBWIkO32U
• Flannelboard or Prop Rhyme: Five Snowmen: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hTX8ucX1sos
• Flannelboard Song: Five Little Trucks http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vEvTqgxeCrY
• Flannelboard or Prop Rhyme: Five Little Monkeys: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-5tM5vd7hts
• Action Rhyme: Caterpillar, Caterpillar: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JN71_Q0aMQw
• Prop Story: Bear’s Bath: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xBRGWcWkmLw
• Book: Cornelius P. Mud, Are You Ready for Bed?: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KWNQMAZ3Ggk
• Book: Bear Wants More: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eXC3ll27YX0
• Group Management Signs: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R0qYO8RjglQ

Slideshow:

http://www.slideshare.net/ALATechSource/liven-up-baby-and-toddler-storytimes-with-sign-language-with-kathy-macmillan