Click HERE for the presentation video with sign interpretation.
This presentation discusses the importance of sign language in early childhood for supporting deaf and hard-of-hearing children’s healthy development and preventing language deprivation and communication neglect. The presentation outlines how children’s literacy development is supported through sign language. Data is reported from two studies of innovative sign language and early literacy programs: a program for teaching parents and caregivers American Sign Language (ASL) rhymes, rhythms, and stories; and a program for teaching parents and caregivers how to share children’s books through ASL. The implications of these findings are discussed in terms of facilitating early literacy in early intervention for deaf children and their families.