Parents and Families
Visit this area often to see information for parents and families![](/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/ASD-1005_-FP-image_v01.jpg)
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 Video of the Week: ON](https://deafchildren.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/asl-video-of-the-week-on-feature-1080x675.jpg)
ASL Video of the Week: ON
This week’s ASL video takes a deep dive into the word “on” and gives examples of its uses in English and ASL.
![Webinar: Learn Strategies to Improve English Literacy Skills](https://deafchildren.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/boosting-english-literacy-feature-1080x675.jpg)
Webinar: Learn Strategies to Improve English Literacy Skills
Learn how Cued Speech and other strategies can help deaf and hard of hearing students improve their English literacy skills.
![Learn ASL Signs for Puberty, Sex, and the Facts of Life](https://deafchildren.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/asl-signs-facts-of-life-feature-1080x675.jpg)
Learn ASL Signs for Puberty, Sex, and the Facts of Life
Take our online class to learn American Sign Language signs for discussing puberty, sex, and related topics.
![Newsletter – July/Aug 2021](https://deafchildren.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/july-aug-2021-newsletter-feature-image-1080x675.jpg)
Newsletter – July/Aug 2021
Get ASL resources for the back to school season – and more- in our July/Aug newsletter!
![ASL Resources: Back to School](https://deafchildren.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/back-to-school-asl-resources-1080x675.jpg)
ASL Resources: Back to School
Watch fun videos of ASL signs, songs, and stories for the back to school season.
![DeafBlind Resources: Early Communication](https://deafchildren.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/deafblind-resources-early-language-1080x675.jpg)
DeafBlind Resources: Early Communication
Communication and Concept Development During the earliest stage of communication, children communicate through unintentional behaviors, like crying when hungry. As they grow, their communication becomes more intentional, as they observe, interact, and begin to mimic...
![ASL Story Time: A Can of Worms](https://deafchildren.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/asl-story-time-a-can-of-worms-feature-1080x675.jpg)
ASL Story Time: A Can of Worms
Join us on Saturday, October 9 for ASL Story Time featuring “A Can of Worms,” a book for preschoolers about counting and numbers.
![Online Webinar Series: Getting Ready for Post-High School Transition](https://deafchildren.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/webinar-series-parents-guide-to-post-high-school-transition-1080x675.jpg)
Online Webinar Series: Getting Ready for Post-High School Transition
This webinar series helps parents of deaf children ages 14-21 plan for their child’s post-high school transition.
![Beginning ASL Class for Teens & PreTeens – Part 2](https://deafchildren.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/feature-image-beginning-asl-class-for-teens-preteens-1080x675.jpg)
Beginning ASL Class for Teens & PreTeens – Part 2
If your child is 10-15 years old and is new to American Sign Language, this class is for them!
![Webinar: Resources for Teaching Your Child Self Advocacy Skills](https://deafchildren.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/webinar-resources-for-teaching-your-child-self-advocacy-feature-1080x675.jpg)
Webinar: Resources for Teaching Your Child Self Advocacy Skills
Learn where you can get great resources, including videos, that teach kids of all ages how to advocate for their needs.