Setting Language in Motion: Family Supports and Early Intervention for Babies Who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing

Module 4 - Launching Communication and Language Through Sign

Module 4 provides information on how to facilitate communication and language development through the use of sign.


In Module 4, you will:

  • develop an understanding of the benefits of signing for all babies, whether deaf, hard of hearing, or hearing;
  • learn how to communicate with a baby who is deaf or hard of hearing through sign language; 
  • develop an understanding of how ASL can be the primary language; 
  • develop an appreciation of how sign language and speech development can co-exist; 
  • develop an understanding of how signs can be used before and after cochlear implantation; 
  • review tips on how to learn sign language; and 
  • review tips on how to facilitate communication and language development in sign for professionals and families.  

Downloadable resources and additional information are provided at the bottom of this module web page. 

Sections

 

Module 4 - Launching Communication and Language Through Sign

Module Materials

Related Assets
About the Author

Stacey Culver and Janis Cole are the authors of Module 4.

About the Actor

Michelle A. Banks is the actor in the introduction, the overview, and Modules 2, 4, and 7.

Early Intervention Network: Supporting Linguistic Competence for Children Who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing

This on-line network shares five evidence-based factors and supporting program components shown to be essential for the development of linguistic competence in children who are deaf or hard of hearing. Various programs implementing these factors from throughout the country are highlighted. There are many resources for promoting both visual and spoken language development.

VCSL-SLS Checklist

Supports Module 4: The Standardized Visual Communication and Sign Language Checklist for Signing Children by Simms, Baker, and Clark

Communication Tips for Families of Children Who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing

Supports Module 4: Offers communication tips for families of children who are deaf or hard of hearing.

Communication Language Milestones

Supports Module 4: Explains communication language milestones.