basic skills

Learning Basic Skills [VHS]
$19.95
Although a fan of Hap Palmer, the songs in this video didnt' strike me as particularly cute at first glance. Although very melodic, the lyrics just kind of go here and theres. HOWEVER, my 18-month old LOVES this video and all other Hap Palmer stuff. After a couple of weeks she is making the movements of the kids on the video and learning how to move different body parts, like touching her elbow to her knee, etc. Also, I have to admit, I now love the songs too and sing them in my head even when the video isn't playing. Is this a good thing? Most importantly, my daughter is mesmerized and I find Basic Learning Skills to be a superior video babysitter to Barney.

Multisensory Teaching Of Basic Language Skills, 2nd Edition
$69.95
As a third grade teacher and trained reading specialist, Multisensory teaching of basic language skills is the most comprehensive, helpful book concerning reading research and instruction that I have encountered. It is particularly useful for reading interventionists and anyone working with students with Dyslexia.

The text begins with a summation of current reading research and its relevance. Then it explains various elements of reading (oral language, phonemic awareness, alphabet knowledge, and history of the English language). Introduction to the multisensory lesson format and assessment follows, with chapters focusing on all the lesson components (which includes a section on teaching Spanish speaking students). As a bonus, the book also offers tips on writing and math instruction, teaching high-functioning adults with Dyslexia, and helpful hints for parents. Although the entire book is useful, the lesson planning is especially beneficial, and is organized in a manner that makes it easy to go back and reference.

The lesson format is organized into concise mini-lessons that fit together. Each day, the student works on each component of reading, and moves quickly, eliminating boredom. The format is extremely effective in a one-on-one or small group setting, but can be utilized with a whole class. The only negative of this program is the planning time for the teacher and required materials, especially when the instructor is just beginning.

I whole-heartedly recommend this textbook to any educator.

Melissa & Doug Deluxe Basic Skills Board
$19.99
I usually love Melissa & Doug toys, but I was dissapointed with this one. The button hole is stitched so tightly that it's hard for toddler-sized hands to put the huge button through it. The belt is also a bit tricky since the holes are close together.

The plus side: it's a basical skills board and puzzle all-in-one, and it's fun to "dress"/"undress" the bear.

Math - Statistics & Basic Computer Skills (Win/Mac) (Jewel Case)
$9.99
This doesn't have enough material to be considered a tutorial. It seems to be a collection of a few forays into electronic teaching and not very good ones, at that.