Parents as Observers, Teachers & Lookouts

Infants and toddlers rely upon their parents to understand and respond to the meaning of their behaviors, e.g., hunger, interest, fear, sleepiness, etc. Parent/child interactions serve to create a connection through which children begin to learn and use the language of their culture.  Parent/child interactions also serve to teach children culturally expected behaviors (e.g., “Wave bye, bye”) and safety strategies  (e.g., “No! No! Don’t touch that!”).  Unfortunately, most parents are unaware of the need to interpret the meaning of their children’s behavior to others, or to insure that individuals who interact with their child will do them no harm. These needs are critical for parents of children who are deaf and hard of hearing.

This Webinar will share information, strategies and resources parents of DHH infants/toddlers can use to:

1. Effectively observe, understand and share the meaning of their infant’s/toddler’s behavior;

2. Teach their infant/toddler language skills that will enhance their communication competence and safety; and

3. Establish a “circle of trust” concerning those individuals who are given the opportunity to care for the infant/toddler when parents are not present.

Webinar information will be provided within the context of the “protective factors” that have been found to create a safe and nurturing environment for parents and their children.

Full webinar – 50 Minutes 

For New Families Starting Out on the Journey of Parenting a Child who is Deaf or Hard of Hearing

It’s easy to get confused when learning about your child’s needs after discovering they are deaf or hard of hearing.

• Where do families begin?
• What are the questions to ask?
• How to feel more confident when supporting your child?

Learn the answers to these questions and more!

Families of any aged child are welcome

Presented by

• Christine Griffin – WA State Hands & Voices/Guide By Your Side
• Krissy Walker – Center for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Youth

ASL Interpreting and Closed Captioned

Full webinar – 45 Minutes

Transition from Early Intervention for Families of Children who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing

This workshop will offer key concepts to help you learn about the transition from early intervention process as it relates to children who are Deaf/Hard of Hearing

Workshop Outcomes:

• Recognize Family Centered vs. Child centered services
• List considerations for Special Education eligibility
• Describe how incidental learning relates to DHH children
• Identify resources to help you during this process

Presented by

• Christine Griffin- WA Hands & Voices
• Kris Ching- Center for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Youth
• Rebecca Butz-Houghton-Special Education Administrator

Full webinar – 69 Minutes