Why Bilingual Education Matters for Deaf Children?​

ASL and English: A Path to Full Development

"Every Deaf child deserves the right to grow up bilingual."

ASL and English help deaf children reach their full potential in language, learning, and life. Language shapes how children think, bond, and thrive- that's why early access to both is essential.​

American Sign Language

English (Spoken/Written)

• Natural first language
• Supports early communication
• Builds identity and confidence

• Language of school and community
• Needed for reading and academics
• Helps in future employment

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Download the full article by Francois Grosjean on why bilingualism is vital for deaf children

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Key Resources

• Visual Language and Visual Learning (VL2) Center: Research on visual learning, bilingualism, and literacy in DHH children.
• DHH Child Resilience Center: ASL-accessible resources and mental health services adapted for Deaf children.
• Language First: Information and advocacy about ASL/English bilingualism.

Program Offered

• Early Language and Outreach Services: Helping families nurture early communication.
• Early Literacy Foundations: Building reading and writing skills from a bilingual perspective.
• Sign Language Learning: ASL classes for families and communities.

Family Support

• Early Intervention: Guidance and tools to support language development from birth.
• Alliances: Connect with organizations and advocacy networks.
• Community Connections: Foster relationships within the Deaf community.

Additional Resources

• ASL at Home: For hearing families with young DHH children.
• Make the Connection (MTC): Strengthens parent-child bonding and communication.
• OSD ASL Community Classes: Introductory ASL courses for community members.