Handsigns, A Sign Language Alphabet

Handsigns, A Sign Language Alphabet, by Kathleen Fain, is a wonderful way to introduce children to sign language.  Each letter of the alphabet is represented by a beautifully illustrated animal with an inset of how to sign the letter.  A glossary of the animals concludes the book so that more can be learned about the animal.

This book is a great tool to practice learning the letters of American Sign Language.  We have gotten this book out many times to review the letters.  This would make a great gift to any family who’s interested in learning the American Manual Alphabet.

Question Collection:

*Which animal is your favorite?

*Can you learn all of the letters to sign one of the animal’s name?

*Can you sign your name?

*Would you like to learn more sign language?

Read more children's ABC books here!

My Great-Aunt Arizona

My Great-Aunt Arizona, by Gloria Houston, is one of my favorite books, probably because it expresses my love of teaching.  Although Great-Aunt Arizona taught in times past, Houston’s story remains timeless because it catches the essence of what teachers want for their students.  Miss Arizona teaches her students about the far away places they will go while she dreams of those far away places.

This book is a great one to read as children start back to school.  The beauty of Gloria Houston’s voice shines through in this tribute to her great aunt. I think a parent’s conversation about this book can open children’s minds to begin to recognize what teachers are doing in their classrooms.  We hope you enjoy Great Aunt Arizona’s story!

Question Collection:

*How is Great Aunt Arizona’s childhood different than yours?

*Why do you think Great Aunt Arizona became a teacher?

*How does her classroom look compared to yours?

*What things do you think your teacher is doing to help you this year?