Early Intervention Key to Improving Literacy Skills for Deaf Children.
There are great benefits for deaf children in having their parents read stories to them in sign language.
What was this article about?
This article on a 2011 research project from Canada's Ryerson University, explores the great benefits for deaf children in having their parents read stories to them in sign language. Across the 10-month project, hearing parents of deaf children were taught how to read children's classics using American Sign Language (ASL).
What were the key findings?
- Hearing parents of deaf children were taught shared reading strategies including how to use sign language to retain their children's visual attention and encouraging them to ask questions and discuss the illustrations. Reading stories this way exposes children to broad vocabulary.
- Parents learned about ASL and became involved in the deaf ASL community. They met other parents learning ASL and deaf adults who had expertise in bilingual education.
- Regular contact with deaf adults offers language and cultural models for parents and children.
Where can I read more about this paper?
Early Intervention Key to Improving Literacy Skills for Deaf Children
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