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"A. Lincoln: From Railsplitter to Rushmore" Exhibit

From:06/01/2013

To:09/30/2013

"A. Lincoln: From Railsplitter to Rushmore" Exhibit

10 a.m.-5 p.m. June 1 through Sept. 30, Ronald Reagan Library and Museum, 40 Presidential Dr., Simi... Read More

06/02/2013

Lummis Day Festival

10:30 a.m.-7 p.m., Heritage Square Museum, 3800 Homer St., L.A.; 323-225-2700. This celebration of N... Read More

DVD Review: Shut Up and Sign!

Fun and engaging videos help elementary-age kids learn the basics of American Sign Language.

Published: 10/30/2012

by Julie Kertes

Though I’m not too crazy about the title, “Shut Up and Sign” is a series of DVDs that teaches American Sign Language to children in an entertaining and engaging way.

The lessons are written and hosted by well-known deaf actor Bob Hiltermann, who plays myriad characters, and directed by Marty Elcan. Hiltermann is funny and charming, but most importantly, he signs in a way that is easy for students to follow and learn. Practical phrases are covered in each signing episode, culminating with a fun song that invites viewers to sign along.

“The lessons are clever and will engage first through third graders,” says Mindy Levine, an elementary school teacher who has a background in American Sign Language. “I also like the fact that children will get to experience first-hand, and hear, someone who is actually hearing impaired.”

There are three signing DVDs at $19.95 and three finger spelling DVDs at $14.95 each, all of which are available at www.shutupandsign.com.

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