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

ASL Resources for Deaf Awareness Month – September 2021
September is Deaf Awareness Month. See ASL videos that celebrate this annual event and raise awareness about diversity in the Deaf community.

2022 MJP Deaf Art, Storytelling, and ASL Poetry Competition
Registration is now open for the 2022 Marie Jean Phillip Deaf Art, Storytelling, and ASL Poetry Competition. See past winners, learn how to register.

ASL Video of the Week: OPEN
This week’s ASL video is all about the many meanings of the word OPEN, presented by our friends at EnglishByEye.

ASL Resources for Remembering 9/11
To commemorate the 20th anniversary of the fall of the Twin Towers, we’ve collected videos in ASL about this event and its aftermath.

Clear Face Mask Offer
Donate $30 to the American Society for Deaf Children and get a set of 5 clear face masks! Offer ends 9/31/21

Pre-National Deaf Pickleball Tournament
Join us in Westminster, MD on Saturday, September 11th for an all-day pickleball tournament. Admission is free. Families and fans are welcome!

New Poll for Deaf/HH Drivers
A new poll from the auto industry gauges how Deaf and hard of hearing drivers interact with vehicles. This information will be used to improve accessibility in new cars.

Deafblindness and Learning
Children who are deaf-blind often miss out on natural (incidental) opportunities to learn. Learn practices and strategies to promote access to learning!

ASL (Story) Video of the Week: DAVID GOES TO SCHOOL
This week’s video is an ASL retelling of the book, David Goes to School. Find out what happens when David’s outrageous behavior lands him in trouble at school.

October Webinar – A Crash Course Deaf Education
Learn about Deaf Education and get the tools you need to make informed decisions about your child’s educational placement and support.