November 2020

Did You Know: Face Masks and Access

With guidelines that require mask wearing people who are deaf or hard of hearing face greater challenges with communication access. Face masks reduce the volume and clarity of speech and eliminate the ability to speech read or see facial expression. Many people in public places don't realize that others have hearing differences. People who are deaf or hard of hearing may struggle to understand what is said through masks. This can make communication more challenging and frustrating. Here are some tips for increasing tips to improve communication:

  • Try to reduce background noise

  • Rephrase information instead of repeating

  • Talk a little louder, project your voice

  • Talk a little slower, don't mumble

  • Use a clear face mask like one of these

Check out this article for more information about face masks and communication difficulties for people with hearing differences.

Social Justice Corner

COVID has limited our children's opportunities to learn and have healthy discussions with peers and teachers about racial injustice and racial inequity following the murder of George Floyd. It is important that we have conversations with our children and answer their questions honestly. Children who are deaf and hard of hearing often miss overhearing conversations and miss critical information. They can be confused and worried about the world around them. It is important to talk openly with them about what we are experiencing and seeing in our community. Here are some tips for taking to them about racial injustice and racial inequality.

  1. Be honest. Discuss differences openly and model how to treat others with respect. Make sure that your words and behaviors aline.

  2. Get involved. Answer questions kids have about diversity. Call out biases or prejudice when you see it in your family and in public. Encourage activism with your child and peers.

  3. Foster pride. Help children to understand their family heritage and acknowledge others have different family heritage. Have conversations and make opportunities to learn about people with different backgrounds.

For more tips and information visit these websites:

MN Hands and Voices How to Talk to Children About Tolerance and Racial Justice

MPR's How White People Can Talk to Their Kids About Race

NAD's Avoidable Killings by Police Must Stop

Parent Resources

Minnesota Hands and Voices

has some fun upcoming events. Check them out in the activities section below and register if interested. Also check out the Hands and voices parent newsletter at https://www.mnhandsandvoices.org/news-events/focus-newsletter

Deaf/Hard of Hearing Guide

Many students who are deaf and hard of hearing have never met someone just like them and may be struggling with their identity as a hard of hearing or deaf person. Would you like to connect with a DHH role model in your area that could meet with your child outside of school and help them learn about things like peer friendships, using technology, self-esteem and identity, and thinking about the future? Lifetrack in Minnesota offers a program that you should take advantage of! Learn more about the program HERE and read about the guides in Minnesota.

Lifetrack Deaf Mentor

The Deaf Mentor family program is offered to families who have a deaf or hard of hearing child. They work with families and use research-based curriculum to promote communication and language skills. For more information about the program click HERE.

College Scholarships for Students who are Deaf/Hard of Hearing

Is your child in the process of applying to college? HERE is a list of available scholarships for students with hearing differences.

Book Recommendation

Boy

by Phil Cummings

The king’s battles with the dragon were always mighty and loud. Boy lived in silence and couldn’t hear the fighting. But Boy could see the fear around him… and how everyone would be much happier without it.

Suggested reading for ages 4 to 9 years old

Upcoming Activities

Advocating for your DHH Child/Students Drop-in Events

Educational advocacy, support, and training by Hands & Voices

More information and register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/educational-advocacy-support-and-training-astra-tickets-120243430337?aff=erelexpmlt

MNHV Online Family Event: Holiday Fun & Crafts

Dec. 4, 2020

6:30-8:00

Educational Advocacy, Support and Training (ASTra) Series: 7 part training

Jan. 28, 2021