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 Signs for October – Video](https://deafchildren.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/october-signs-feature-image-1080x675.jpg)
ASL Signs for October – Video
Learn spooky ASL signs for October with ASL teacher Ursa Rewolinski!
![Learn ASL Signs for Autumn – Video](https://deafchildren.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/fall-signs-feature-image-1080x675.jpg)
Learn ASL Signs for Autumn – Video
Learn ASL signs for autumn/fall and put them together in an ASL story! This month’s sign video is presented by Ricky Rose.
![Video: Signing Numbers in ASL](https://deafchildren.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/signing-asl-numbers-feature-image-1080x615.jpg)
Video: Signing Numbers in ASL
Watch this video from Ricky Rose on signing ASL numbers. Learn why the same number can be signed in a slightly different way, depending on context.
![Free ASL Numbers Chart](https://deafchildren.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/feature-image-asl-numbers-1080x675.jpg)
Free ASL Numbers Chart
Get a free ASL numbers chart that show the hand shapes for numbers 0-20 in American Sign Language. Free from the American Society for Deaf Children. Please share!
![Learn ASL Signs for July – Video](https://deafchildren.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/july-signs-feature-image-1080x675.jpg)
Learn ASL Signs for July – Video
Learn ASL signs for July, pool, swim, beach, water, bike, picnic, cookout, and more!, and more! Your July Signs video is presented by Edna Johnston.
![NEW! Parent Advocacy App](https://deafchildren.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/feature-image-advocacy-app-1080x675.jpg)
NEW! Parent Advocacy App
The Parent Advocacy app will guide you through IEP, 504, and other important school meetings. Get answers, find resources, and track your progress with this easy-to-use app that will teach you how to advocate for the outcomes your child deserves.
![Free ASL Alphabet Chart](https://deafchildren.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/asl-alphabet-chart-header-1080x615.jpg)
Free ASL Alphabet Chart
Get a free ASL alphabet chart that show the hand shapes for letters A-Z in American Sign Language. Free from the American Society for Deaf Children. Please share!
![Learn ASL Signs for June – Video](https://deafchildren.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/june-signs-feature-with-ursa-1080x675.jpg)
Learn ASL Signs for June – Video
Learn ASL signs for June, summer, vacation, finish, father, grandfather, uncle, Father’s day, Fourth of July, and more! Your June Signs with ASDC video is presented by Ursa Rewolinski.
Why I Love SignOn with ASDC
Ariella, ASDC member and mother of two, sits down to tell you about her experiences with SignOn with ASDC. What is SignOn? SignOn is a virtual immersion program that lets you practice your ASL live with a Deaf adult from the comfort of your own...
![ASL: For young children, both quantity and quality matter](https://deafchildren.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/odyssey-blog-post-feature-image-2-1080x675.jpg)
ASL: For young children, both quantity and quality matter
The Importance of Quantity and Quality of ASL with Young Deaf and Hard of Hearing Children by Todd LaMarr and Lisalee D. Egbert, who currently serves as the VP of the ASDC Board of Directors This article appeared in the 2019 Issue of Odyssey: New...