In moments of crisis, communication can be a matter of life and death. For the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community, interactions with first responders — such as police officers, firefighters, EMTs, and paramedics — can be especially stressful when language barriers exist. That’s why it is crucial for first responders to have at least a basic […]
ReadmoreBeing an ally means more than just supporting a cause—it means taking intentional steps to uplift and empower others. For the Deaf community, allyship involves recognizing the unique challenges Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals face and actively working to remove barriers and foster inclusion. Whether you’re a friend, educator, employer, family member, or someone […]
ReadmoreAudism is a term many people have never heard of, yet it affects millions of Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals every day. Simply put, audism is discrimination or prejudice against people who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing. It assumes that being able to hear—and speak—is superior to being Deaf. These assumptions can manifest in […]
ReadmoreWhy Deaf Awareness Month Matters Every September, we celebrate Deaf Awareness Month, a time dedicated to recognizing the Deaf community’s rich culture, language, and contributions to society. While awareness days and months come and go, Deaf Awareness Month holds a special place, not only for Deaf individuals, but also for the broader public striving for inclusion, […]
ReadmoreStretch & Flex Fine Motor Warm-Ups6. Piano Taps – Tap fingers on a surface like you’re playing piano keys.7. Coin Flips – Practice flipping a coin between your fingers.8. Rubber Band Expansions – Place a rubber band around your fingers and open your hand against resistance. Creative Movement9. Air Drawing – “Draw” shapes, letters, or […]
ReadmoreWhen many people hear the word Deaf, they think of someone who can’t hear. While that’s true from a medical perspective, being Deaf is about much more than hearing loss—it’s about identity, culture, community, and language. Audiological vs. Cultural Deafness From an audiological standpoint, a Deaf person typically has a profound hearing loss, meaning they hear […]
ReadmoreDaily Practice Ideas Practice With Others Classroom or Study-Based Practice Creative Practice Technology-Based Practice
ReadmoreI. Genetic Causes These are inherited or caused by genetic mutations, either present at birth or progressive over time. II. Acquired Causes These are due to factors after conception and can occur prenatally, perinatally, or postnatally. A. Prenatal (before birth) B. Perinatal (during birth) C. Postnatal (after birth) III. Unknown or Idiopathic Causes In some cases, no identifiable […]
ReadmoreWhat Is a Cochlear Implant? A cochlear implant is a surgically implanted electronic device that provides a sense of sound to individuals who are severely to profoundly deaf or severely hard of hearing.Unlike hearing aids, which amplify sounds, cochlear implants bypass the damaged parts of the inner ear and directly stimulate the auditory nerve. Main Components: Who […]
Readmore