Research shows that reading and signing stories together helps promote essential literacy skills for ALL children: deaf, hard of hearing, and hearing. Make the most of signing and reading with your child!
American Sign Language (ASL) storytelling is important for many reasons, including:
Cultural tradition
ASL storytelling is a key part of Deaf culture and tradition. It helps explain Deaf identity, beliefs, and ways of life, and it's a cherished medium in the Deaf community. ASL storytelling is also an oral tradition that allows Deaf people to pass down the histories of Deaf men and women, providing role models for Deaf children.
Art form
ASL storytelling is an art form that uses the body and space around the storyteller to set the stage, introduce characters, and show action. It's different from spoken language storytelling because ASL requires the use of hands and the showing of emotion, which are essential elements.
Communication
ASL storytelling can help listeners improve their communication skills and cultural sensitivity. It can also help people learn ASL as a second language more quickly.
Opportunity to unite communities
ASL storytelling can be a unique opportunity to bring together two communities that are sometimes separate, and to put them on an even playing field.
Signing Families Corner https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL7_aLrYGO7XhyzSzHll_SJsE9tyRkqy2w&si=nzfuY51Fz-x785lF
Rocky Mountain Deaf School Playlist https://www.youtube.com/watchv=C70HST10Wq4&list=PLM43Rq802SyuvagVXFjXokLfIZ0TtDMWy
Early Childhood Education CSD Playlist https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5CszD-CIZL2JbHt_ABBxuMTdh7cXgWyh
DPAN Kids Stories in ASL https://dpan.tv/programs/collection-vvevex5tooe?cid=720331
ASL Stories Directory
The American Society for Deaf Children has a directory with hundreds of free videos of ASL retellings of children's books. The directory includes stories by title and age, as well as signed stories and learning resources.