Designed for children ages two and up, Danny the Dragon Meets Jimmy is an illustrated, narrated storybook that reads to children on its own. Even better is that deaf children won’t be left out, thanks to built-in sign language video.
AU: So you’re aware, Australian sign language is very different to the American sign language used in this book – NB
As kids turn the pages at their own pace, an accompanying interpreter will provide visual narration. Touch devices like the iPad hold the potential to do great things for young readers, and we’re happy to see publishers ensure that those with disabilities are included. [iTunes]
Bupoink
Thursday, August 12, 2010 at 9:59 AMNarration for a book seems rather redundant. Can’t they read?
Josh
Thursday, August 12, 2010 at 1:43 PMWas thinking the same thing. Kinda pointless really.
Dana Baker
Saturday, August 14, 2010 at 12:28 AMAs the mother of three deaf children and one deaf grandchild I can tell you that this is going to fill a HUGE need for deaf children. Most children cannot read until they are much older. There are plenty of books on the market that hearing children can “listen” to by pushing buttons or watching them online. The deaf child does not have these options until now. Furthermore, most (95%) deaf children have hearing parents who don’t know how to sign, so they can’t “read” the book to them either. This is an awesome solution!
Paul Hempsall
Thursday, August 12, 2010 at 2:08 PMI think you might be missing the point somewhat.
Having the narrator/interpreter helps to reinforce and develop kid’s skills in sign language.
Depending on the age of the child, they might not be able to read. Having the oral narration also helps children while they learning to read.
This format would also cater for children with visual impairments.
I think this is an excellent initiative. Great work!
Jackie Day
Tuesday, August 17, 2010 at 1:15 AMI just want to say “Have you heard of equal access.” That is what this provides for deaf children.
Parents read to their children even while they are still in the womb, and continue to do so until and even after they learn to read.
As Dana commented earlier most deaf children are deprived of this due to the fact that most are born to hearing parents who do not know how to sign. This is a great resource for these children.
Many hearing babies are being taught to sign to enhance their language development. Deaf babies and toddlers deserve the same opportunity. Too bad this will not be available for all due to the costs involved.