Parents and Families
Visit this area often to see information for parents and families
There is no one right way.
Every child and family is different. Values, experiences, opinions, and resources vary from family to family. What works in one situation may not work in another. There are a number of ways to be successful raising a deaf or hard of hearing child. No one plan or formula will work for everyone. You must do what you believe is right for your child and family. Start Here! ASDC is comprised of a board of parents of deaf children as well as deaf adults and we have compiled for you the ASDC Information book. Our gift to you will provide you with our combined expertise in one place.
Get to know other parents of deaf and hard of hearing children
All parents want what is best for their child. Meeting other parents and learning about their experiences can help you find out about options, resources and can serve as a means of support.
Get to know deaf and hard of hearing role models
Spending time with deaf and hard of hearing role models can help you understand what it means to be deaf. Your deaf or hard of hearing child can achieve the same academic, social, and personal fulfillment as hearing children. Did you know that most deaf and hard of hearing adults grew up in a hearing family? Their experience, information, and perspective can help you as you navigate your families journey.
Recommended Reading
Increasing Literacy Skills with Your Deaf Infant It is never too early to communicate with your child, especially if they are deaf or hard of hearing.
The Infant and Toddler Program If your infant or toddler has been identified with a hearing loss, they may be eligible for services under the Infant and Toddlers Program of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
Picking Educational Programs Often parents want to know what the best program is, or whether a particular program is better than another one.
All Parents and Families Articles
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ASL Video of the Week: Good to be Me
"Good to be Me" by Jessica Parham "Good to be Me" is an adorable children's book written by the author Jessica Parham, illustrated by Srimalie Bassani, and signed by Amelia the Archaeologist. Just in time for back-to-school transitions and experiences, this...
ASL Weekend: A Fun and Interactive Two-Day Workshop for Parents & Professionals | October 2022 in Knoxville, TN
October is just around the corner and we're getting ready for our next ASL Weekend! Join us in Knoxville, TN for ASDC's fall ASL Weekend and take your ASL skills to the next level! ASL Weekend is a two-day ASL workshop for parents, professionals, and anyone interested...
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NY Times Article: A Language Changed
Photos credits: Changing signs for “phone.”Mohamed Sadek and Ege Soyuer for The New York TimesASDC is always watching the ever-evolving trends that take place in language and language development - especially when it involves American Sign Language (ASL). In the July...
Celebrate the ADA today! 32 years of Advocacy for Americans with Disabilities
ASDC is proud to support the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) 32nd Anniversary! On July 26th we celebrate this important civil rights law that works to ensure all people with disabilities have the same rights and opportunities as everyone else. Celebrate with us...
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We had a BLAST! Thank you for joining us in Anaheim!
We just wrapped up another life-changing, heartwarming, and laughter-filled ASDC Family Conference in Anaheim! The ASDC Board of Directors, Staff, and Families had a blast with the morning learning and the afternoon sign-seeing tours around Anaheim. We went to a...
RoseBYANDER Supports ASDC
Thank you to RoseBYANDER for this special video! — We at RoseBYANDER believe in supporting #education for Deaf and Hard of Hearing children everywhere. This week we are supporting the American Society for Deaf Children. Learn more about the organization...
Donor Acknowledgements – June 2022
Thank you to ASDC’s June 2022 Donors! Your support and contributions help us connect families through American Sign Language. Individual Donors Anonymous (3) Roberta Grogan Deborah Korhonen Edgar and Lynda Layland James Messick & Laura Moreno Geri RiosDedicated...
Crucial Conversations: Supporting My Child’s Mental Wellness in a Hearing World: The Parent’s Perspective | July 26, 2022 @ 2 pm ET
This is the second conversation in a months-long series in ASDC's collaboration with Signed by Stories highlighting the challenges that deaf youth face in finding support for the their mental health. It is our hope that these live-streamed and crucial conversations...
ASL VIDEO OF THE WEEK: Sign “HAND” 10 Different Ways
Did you know there are 10 different ways to sign the word "HAND"? There is! Learn about them here! Video: Meanings of HAND in ASLASL presenters: Trix BruceVoice-overs: Lynne D. SmithEditor: Don ParnellProduced by: Read with ASL & Chris Wixtrom On-screen sentences...
Black American Sign Language Representation – Craig of the Creek on Cartoon Network
We love to see this! Representation and even more representation in children’s tv shows is so exciting! This is now on our Summer TV Binge List! —— Posted @withregram • Cartoon Network Check out the Black American Sign Language representation in Craig of the Creek!...