Sing Dance 'n Sign. By Gaia Tossing & Ed Tossing. Andrea Blain Public Relations, Inc., 9750 Crawford Ave., Skokie, IL 60076. 45 minutes, VHS. $14.95, $3.95 S&H. Reviewed by Debbie Smith, Omaha, NE.

Sing Dance 'n Sign is an entertaining and delightful videotape for use with young children. The brightly colored costumes and set design are visually engaging and appealing, and visual shifts to different stage sets, as well as the use of different performers, help to maintain the viewer's interest and give the impression that the primary purpose of this video is entertainment.

Production style is very creative, including the use of colorful sets, props, and costumes, and featuring a variety of children performing as costumed characters. Choreography is nicely done, although it does not lend itself to actually learning sign language. Occasionally, the sign language communication with the audience is a bit rushed, although the "blue hand" is a nice touch that emphasizes fingerspelling of character names and the number lesson. This technique also gives a close-up look at the actual handshape of letters and signs being emphasized. Video quality is sharp and clear; camera shots are smooth, precise, well focused, and centered. The use of open captions is a helpful addition.

Children who are hearing and who range in age from preschool (4 or 5 years) to approximately 6th grade would find this video most enjoyable. Some children who are deaf may find it entertaining, but it is of limited educational benefit for this population, since the focus is not to assist in children in understanding the concepts of some of the songs.

With some modifications, a teacher could utilize this videotape as a supplementary tool for teaching language concepts, and individuals with disabilities other than hearing loss (Down's syndrome, etc.) may find it to be delightful. I would recommend that this video be used with young children as an introduction to the use of sign language in a fun, positive way.