Raising Deaf Children: Strategies for Success
The majority (more than 90%) of deaf children are born to hearing parents. It is natural for a parent to be overwhelmed and unsure where to start. Not only do you have to take on the role of a new parent, but being an advocate for the child has been given a whole new meaning and responsibility. It can be challenging to navigate a topic you previously knew nothing about. But with resources and support available, you can do this! Here are some common difficulties parents confront and ways they can be good advocates.
Give them tools to succeed
Learning ASL from a young age helps deaf toddlers better grasp the English language. Early years are vital for linguistic development, so the earlier they start, the better. Cochlear implants and auditory therapy are personal choices, and their impact depends upon each child’s case of deafness. It’s not something everyone can afford, so don’t carry any guilt for options you can’t present them with. After all, remember: not hearing is their normal and they don’t feel disadvantaged.
Immerse them in Deaf communities
It’s understandable to want your child to be surrounded by people who’ve faced the same adversities. Many deaf children attend mainstream schools, so opting for conventional educational programs over deaf educational programs is not a bad choice. However, deaf students can face difficulty making friends in mainstream settings. If you choose to put your child through conventional education, look to immerse your child in Deaf culture through local programs or social groups. As they grow, they may decide that it’s not the right fit for them, but offering the chance to connect with the Deaf community can be a valuable experience that fosters a sense of belonging.
Be their confidant
Being the only deaf student in a setting can bring feelings of social isolation. It’s understandable – a room full of people whose language you can’t speak and having to form connections. If your child is struggling with the learning curriculum or relating to their peers, it’s important they have someone to talk to. Welcome conversation and continue to check in on them. By being someone they can trust and confide in, you can continue to support them in adapting and making decisions together in what’s best for them.
Talk to their principal and teachers
Implement an Individual Education Plan for integrating your child into the classroom. The faculty should be there to help students succeed, and there needs to be accommodations in place. If the administration isn’t doing enough to help your child, don’t hesitate to speak up or seek other schooling options. Quality education is a priority. If one school isn’t willing to go above and beyond, another will. If you feel your child is being underserved, don’t back down.
Find them a role model
Whether it is a deaf tutor, babysitter, or characters in books and TV shows, it is essential for your child to see a positive role model similar to them. Representation means everything to children. Every kid deserves someone to look up to, and it can be powerful for them to see someone like themselves living a rich and colorful life.
Get involved with disability rights
The world is evolving, but there’s still much to do for equality. Every parent desires for their child to grow up in a world as fair and accepting as possible. Get involved in organizations like the Hearing Loss Association of America or Alexander Graham Bell Association, and start doing your part to make the world better for your child.
Above all else, know that this is your child’s normal. Those who have been deaf from a young age don’t feel like they’re missing out on anything. They long for a society that accepts their normal too. Reach out to Caption Pros, and together, we can build a future that is more inclusive of everyone. Contact us today!
