Deaf Mentor Program News

September 2023

View as Webpage

Program Updates

The Deaf Mentor Program is available through in-person and virtual visits.

English Flyer Spanish Flyer

Email kmakowski@spanadvocacy.org for more information about the program.

Special Events

September 23

International Day of Sign Languages

The United Nations General Assembly has proclaimed September 23 as the International Day of Sign Languages to help raise awareness about sign language and the rights of deaf people. On this day, events are held worldwide to celebrate sign language and highlight its importance in promoting communication and inclusion.

September

Deaf Awareness Month

Deaf Awareness Month aims to increase public awareness of Deaf issues and the culture while emphasizing the positive aspects of deafness, encouraging social inclusion, and raising awareness of organizations that support the deaf and hard-of-hearing community.

Fall Family Early Language & Literacy Event

LSL Corner

Trick-or-Treating Tips for Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Children

Proper Costume Fit

Before purchasing a costume, double check that the mask, hat, or other accessories fit comfortably and securely around any hearing devices, and leave microphones exposed for sound. Avoid purchasing costumes that may obstruct your child’s hearing or vision as that can lead to unnecessary communication breakdowns or even an accidental fall.

Language Building Skills

As you trick or treat around your neighborhood, use the time to talk to your child about their surroundings, the candy they have received, or the different costumes they have encountered. Take the time to point out new sounds they may not have been exposed to as you trick-or-treat from house to house or use the time to play a listening game.

Click Here for More Tips!

Add "Ears" to Your Pumpkin!

If you are looking to add "ears to your pumpkin this Halloween, Cochlear pumpkin stencils are available to download below.

Cochlear Pumpkin Stencils

ASL Corner

Join us for International Day of Sign Languages. It is a unique opportunity to support and protect the linguistic identity and cultural diversity of all deaf people and sign language users.

During this celebration, the world will once again highlight the unity generated by our sign languages. Deaf communities, governments and civil society organizations maintain their collective efforts - hand in hand - in fostering, promoting and recognizing national sign languages as part of their countries’ vibrant and diverse linguistic landscapes.

Described & Captioned Media Program

DCMP educates students with sensory disabilities, along with their parents and teachers. Their major network-produced, educational content is carefully customized to serve the needs of K-12 students, as well as adult students studying to meet the needs of blind and deaf students.

DCMP Website

Join our Facebook page to check out resources, videos, tips, and articles shared regularly with the group. Resources to support deaf children virtually are also shared as they become available. Click to join!

If you would like to receive information about the COVID-19 vaccine for your child(ren), please email mdujue@spanadvocacy.org.

Contact kmakowski@spanadvocacy.org if you have any questions about our program.

SPAN Parent Advocacy Network Deaf Mentor Program

spanadvocacy.org/programs/ehdi