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

Free Webinars on Deaf-Blind Strategies
The National Center on Deaf-Blindness has just posted a series of recorded webinars for parents and teachers on instructional strategies for children and youth who are deaf-blind. Check them out here!

Biden Plan Cites Recent Deaf Education Research
President-Elect Biden’s Plan for Full Participation and Equality for People with Disabilities cited recent research on Deaf Education.

School Member Spotlight: Oklahoma School for the Deaf
Meet ASDC’s newest member school, the Oklahoma School for the Deaf!

ASL Stories for Thanksgiving
Get ready for Thanksgiving with these fun children’s stories in American Sign Language.

#GiveASL and get a clear face mask
Get a clear face mask FREE when you donate $35 or more to ASDC Nov. 13-20, 2020. #GiveASL to a family with a deaf child – and let the world see you smile!

ASL Story Time with Raymond Antrobus
Join us for our first ASDC Story Time! Edna Johnston will sign the new book Can Bears Ski, followed by a lively chat with the author, award-winning Deaf poet Raymond Antrobus. Everyone registered will receive a copy of the book!

Pandemic’s Impact on Deaf Kids – CBS News
How has the pandemic affected deaf children? See how recent changes have impacted learning, socialization, and mental health of deaf kids in this CBS News report.

Survey: Experiences in Accessing Mental Health Treatment
Are you a parent of a child with a mental health condition, a medical condition, and/or a rare disease? Take this survey on accessing mental health treatment for your child!

NTID Interns Shine at ASDC
Every semester, NTID interns work with ASDC staff to create graphics, newsletters, and print materials. See what they have done!

Member Spotlight: The Holley Institute
The Holley Institute is our newest ASDC member organization. Learn about their programs for deaf, hard of hearing, and deafblind children in Michigan.