Exploring Connection: A Review of Sign Language: My First 100 Words
As a mom, bedtime can sometimes feel like a negotiation—who needs to brush their teeth again? Which stuffed animal gets to join us tonight? Last week, amidst our usual evening chaos, I stumbled upon Sign Language: My First 100 Words by Joan Holub and thought, “Why not try something new to engage the kiddos?”
Let me tell you, the minute I opened the book, the atmosphere shifted. My three-year-old, Max, who’s usually more interested in racing cars or dinosaurs, was instantly captivated by the vibrant illustrations. The book is bright and visually inviting, featuring simple computer-generated images that depict various signs with a kid-friendly design. My five-year-old, Lily, who loves taking care of her younger brother, found it amusing to mimic the signs while we read. It became an unexpected bonding moment, as they both experimented with their tiny hands, trying to find the right positions for “more,” “please,” and, of course, “ice cream” (the essential sign in our household!).
Sign Language: My First 100 Words introduces kids to essential signs categorized by themes like Food, Animals, Colors, and even Classroom items. I appreciated how the book compartmentalized these words, making it not just an engaging read but a practical tool for everyday communication. Plus, with the bonus poster of the ASL alphabet, we’ve turned our kitchen wall into an impromptu signing corner.
Oh, the giggles we had! My favorite spread showed animals, and when we reached "cat," Max looked up at me with wide eyes and proclaimed, “I’m a cat, Mommy!” and promptly crawled around the floor, paws up. It was a delightful mix of learning and imagination that I hadn’t anticipated. The book’s approachable style made it easy for both my children to interact, even with those tricky signs. We paused often for discussions, such as when Lily asked, “Why do we need to sign?” It sparked a wonderful conversation about inclusivity and communicating with everyone—a poignant lesson for young hearts.
There was one moment that melted my heart: when Max signed "thank you" without prompting after we finished a snack. I realized that this book, although not a traditional storybook with a linear plot, still planted seeds of appreciation and understanding within my children. It’s a resource we’ll revisit often, taking our time to explore the signs while indulging in the silliness of children pretending to “speak” through their hands.
I would highly recommend Sign Language: My First 100 Words for parents of kiddos aged 2-6, especially those looking to give their kids a head start in communication and empathy. Whether you have a child with special needs or simply want to enrich your family life with new ways of connecting, this book is sure to entertain and educate. It’s not a one-time read; it’s an experience we’ll enjoy, learn, and grow through together—a joyful addition to our storytime routine.
In a world where connection can sometimes get lost in the hustle, this book is a heartwarming reminder that communication transcends words. And every sign is a step toward building a loving bridge between us all. Happy signing, fellow parents!
