Baby Einstein: My First Signs

Movie review by Teresa Talerico, Common Sense Media
Baby Einstein: My First Signs Poster Image

Common Sense says

age 2+

Parents and baby finally speak the same language.

NR 2007 27 minutes
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Parents say

age 2+

Based on 3 reviews

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A Lot or a Little?

The parents' guide to what's in this movie.

What Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know that this DVD targeted at babies teaches babies and parents how to communicate nonverbally by using sign language. The American Academy of Pediatrics advises against letting children under 2 watch television or videos since this is a key period of growth and development (which is why the Common Sense rating system doesn't go below age 2). That said, this is a highly interactive DVD with useful information for parents wanting to learn this communication skill.

Community Reviews

nicolej 1
nicolej 1 Adult
February 9, 2015
age 2+

good for some kids

I think its good for kids under 9 my kids are an infant age 4 and one that is 14 and 2 that are 18 but my 14 and 2 18 year olds did not like it when they became 9
kbierma
kbierma Adult
January 26, 2011
age 2+

useful, educational video

There are a whole lot of signs so it's a little overwhelming, but appealing to kids with both adult and children modeling signs, pictures, cartoons and video clips representing each word. Fast paced yet includes review.

This title has:

Educational value
See all 3 parent reviews

What's the Story?

Studies have shown that learning sign language allows babies to communicate even before they can talk. Designed for ages 6 months and older, BABY EINSTEIN: MY FIRST SIGNS features actress Marlee Matlin and the Baby Einstein puppets. Divided into segments (family, mealtime, play, and bedtime), the program teaches children and their families 20 signs (a combination of American Sign Language and Conceptually Accurate Signed English,) including those for "mommy," "daddy," "eat," "drink," "ball," "friend," "sleep," and "bath." Repetition helps reinforce learning; Matlin introduces each sign, which is then depicted frequently in a mix of live-action scenes, paintings, cartoons, and still photographs. Toddlers, older children, and adults are all shown using the various signs, and there are also some funny learning skits with Matlin and the puppets.

Is It Any Good?

BABY EINSTEIN: MY FIRST SIGNS is a delightful introduction to teaching sign language to children over 6 months of age. The DVD incorporates the music of Beethoven, Handel, and Schubert throughout, uses Bonus features include puppet shows and Matlin teaching viewers additional signs, such as "boy," "girl," "good," and "bad."

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about other signs they can create to communicate with one another. Are there any signs that the baby in the family already uses to express herself?

  • What other ways can parents and young children communicate?

Movie Details

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