Playtime is a natural time for building language with your child who is deaf or hard of hearing (DHH). Here are some strategies families can use during playtime (and throughout the day) to encourage the development of American Sign Language (ASL), whether as the primary language or within an ASL/English bilingual context:
- Encourage Visual Attention: Get your child’s attention to let them know it is time to look. Wave gently in front of your child’s face or tap them on their shoulder or arm. It is important that your child can see and is paying attention to the language you are sharing with them.
- Use Animated Facial Expressions: Nothing captures and holds your child’s attention better than expressive, fun facial expressions. Use big facial expressions during playtime—important information comes from watching your face—not just your hands.
- Model and Repeat: Adding new signs to your child’s language comes from seeing the language over and over again. Whatever you sign, sign it a lot! Repetition helps children make important language connections and reinforce meaning. Use a new word during playtime and challenge yourself to use that new word meaningfully multiple times.
- Respond and Expand: When your child signs, respond or repeat back what they’ve signed and expand on their language. For example, when playing with a dollhouse, your child might sign that the mom is in bed. You could respond that the mom is in bed because she is tired.
- Involve Everyone: Encourage all family members to learn and use ASL, including siblings and extended family. Promote inclusive communication, so no one feels left out.
Additional Resources
For more language strategies to develop ASL and how to use them within family daily routines, check out ASL at Home.
Resources on how to support families in using these strategies at home:
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American Society for Deaf Children offers resources, online courses, and events to support, encourage, and empower families raising children who are DHH.
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Language First offers family-friendly explanations, resources, handouts, intervention activities, and videos on ASL/English bilingualism and the importance of a strong first language foundation for children who are DHH. Online professional development classes are also offered.
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DHH Reading Kits: We offer reading kits for families of students in Michigan who are DHH. Reading books with your child is a wonderful way to support language, learning, and literacy. View the DHH Reading Kits Video to learn more.
Reference
Elements of a Language-Rich Home Environment