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How do we learn language??
Incidental and Intentional Learning:
While language learning happens from direct interaction, this isn't the full story. Children with normal hearing acquire language incidentally. They hear conversations happening all around them. They hear language over the radio, on TV, on the playground, and even when walking around in the grocery store.
Without access to speech sounds or an immersive signing environment, our children who are deaf and hard of hearing miss out on the opportunity to learn language incidentally. Consequently, they often learn language at a slower pace. Gaps in language development impact cognitive development. When this happens, the effects are broad and can last a lifetime. It doesn't have to be this way! As adults, we have to be intentional and create opportunities for teaching our DHH students language!
The most important thing is that interaction with language is happening as frequently as possible! Talk and/or sign with your child all day about everything! Expect them to respond using language.
Below are some tips on how to promote language growth in your child.
Learning happens best in the Zone of Proximal Development. What does that mean??
Start with where your child is currently at and build from there. If you push too hard, your child will become frustrated. If you don't push hard enough, there will be little growth. Aim for finding that sweet spot. Click here to learn more!
Learn about specific ways to encourage language development: Scaffolding!
In the DHH program, everything we do happens through the lens of language development!
No child should be deprived of language!
Lack of access to language in profoundly deaf children has lasting effects.
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