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

Basic ASL Vocabulary for Families
Boost your ASL vocabulary with this free online class from Connections Beyond Sight and Sound. This class is designed for parents and teachers working with deaf and hard of hearing children.

ASDC Newsletter – May 2020
Get information about our upcoming ASL classes, see our RIT spotlight, learn about hearing aid reimbursement, and more!

The Duckling Gets a Cookie!? – ASL Story Time with Art Activity
Jincy Roberson from ImagineASL shares her ASL retelling of Mo Willem’s book, The Duckling Gets a Cookie!? See the video plus get an accompanying art activity that you and your child can do together at home.

ASDC Newsletter – April 2020
Get a new ASL Story video, free memberships, and help with hearing aid management. Learn about a new relay call feature from SVRS, and meet Sign of Hope, our newest ASDC organization member.

Member Organization Spotlight: Signs for Hope
Signs for Hope LLC is an ASDC member organization. Learn about their commitment to deaf children around the world who are waiting to be adopted.

See everyone on your video relay calls with Wavello from SVRS
Learn about a new feature from Sorensen Video Relay Service called Wavello. It’s a new app that allows you to see the person you are calling and the interpreter at the same time! Great for communicating with hearing friends and family.

“Time To Come In, Bear” in ASL
Watch this ASL retelling of Kim St. Lawrence’s book about social distancing, “Time to Come In, Bear.” ASL Interpretation by Jincy Roberson.

Hearing Aid Management Study
Has your child recently been diagnosed with hearing loss and needs hearing aids? Participate in a new University of Utah hearing aid management study. Get details here.

Free ASL Games, Stories for Kids
Get free ASL games, stories, and other learning tools myASLTech.com. They are giving away free memberships for kids for the entire month of April 2020!

ASL Stories Directory – NEW!
Use our new ASL Stories Directory to find a signed version of children’s books. Links to free videos of ASL retellings of stories for children of all ages.