
This illuminating documentary follows Patricia, a deaf child from a hearing, Spanish-speaking family, through her first year at the Kendall Elementary School of Gallaudet University. It dramatically illustrates how the acquisition of communication skills, particularly sign language, enhances a child's self-esteem, confidence, and family relationships. See What I'm Saying affords viewers the opportunity to witness exceptional teaching, and Patricia's remarkable progress will reassure parents and teachers that deaf children can become successful communicators and active learners whether or not they learn to speak.
This program is not only open-captioned, but signed, dubbed and, when needed, translated from Spanish.
"The photography is beautiful and intimate, capturing many delightful moments, including a child's sudden kiss on her teacher's cheek and another child's skip and grin as he enters school. A presentation that educates the heart as well as the mind." —Childhood Education
"Five stars! Realistic and natural; emphasizes the importance of learning to communicate through whichever mode is best for the child. Information is presented to the viewer through speech, signing, and subtitles." —Video Rating Guide
"This unique resource presents the viewpoints of the child, parent, and teacher. Allows viewers to experience language acquisition and observe positive behavioral changes." —Booklist
"Accurately portrays the challenges hearing parents face with their deaf child. It does not hold out false promises, but realistically shows the frustration and anger of the child, the hopes of the parents, and what possibilities lie ahead." —Disability Studies Quarterly
Silver Apple Winner, National Educational Film Festival
CINE Golden Eagle
Rehabilitation International Film Festival
Columbus International Film Festival
American Speech-Language-Hearing Assn.
Council for Exceptional Children International
Hispanic Deaf Experience