Resources for Learning Language and Communication

Learning a new language or way of communicating can be both exciting and challenging. Every child and family are different, so how your child learns will depend on your unique needs. Below are many resources that can help you get started. You can also find recommendations through your child’s doctor, school, local universities, family support groups, or social media. Remember, the Outreach Center is always here to help you.

American Sign Language (ASL)

A full visual language that uses hands, facial expressions, and body movement. Many professionals, like speech-language pathologists and teachers of the deaf, can teach ASL. However, not all are certified in ASL. Always ask about their training and experience.

• American Sign Language Learning is a resource webpage, compiled by the Outreach Center. It includes various online learning opportunities for all ages and subjects. Most are free or inexpensive.
• American Society for Deaf Children offers online ASL classes, workshops, webinars, opportunity to talk with Deaf adults, children’s stories in ASL, and opportunities for children to chat with friends like them.
• ASL Connect through Gallaudet University offers free beginning basic sign language videos, online credited courses, and opportunities to practice at their campus.
• Check your local Community Center for the Deaf. They often offer in person sign language classes.
• The Described and Captioned Media Program is a federally funded national database of accessible videos in captioning, audio description, and American Sign Language. Families who have a child with a disability can apply for free membership.
• Language First is an organization which specifically provides resources supporting ASL and bilingualism.
• ASL-LEX is a searchable database of lexical and phonological properties of American Sign Language signs. ASL-LEX was updated in Fall 2020 with expanded information and an increased size of 2,723 signs.
• Start ASL includes standards based online American Sign Language courses, the first course is free.

Augmentative Alternative Communication (ACC)

Augmentative and Alternative Communication AAC includes tools and strategies that help with communication. It is part of a broader group called assistive technology. AAC might include picture boards, tablets with speech apps, or other tools.

Professionals who may help with AAC include:

• Speech-language pathologists
• Audiologists
• Occupational therapists
• Assistive technology specialists
• Teachers of the deaf or hard of hearing

Ask about their experience with AAC and how they can help you choose the best options for your child.

• SIFTS, is a quick online survey tool that can help identify features of ACC devices that meet your child’s needs.
• OCALI’s Lending Library has ACC available for short term loan to allow you to try the device before purchasing it.

Cued Speech/Language

Cued Speech, also referred to as cued language, is a visual way to show speech sounds with handshapes and placement near the face. It helps children see the differences between sounds that look the same on the lips.

Professionals in speech language pathology or deaf education might know Cued Speech/Language but be sure to ask about their background.

• Cued College is a free instruction program for families, including online courses, tutoring, and a cued speech library.
• Daily Cues: Your Daily Resource for Everything Cued Speech is an international group in which members collaborate to create content.
• The Described and Captioned Media Program has 10 online lessons called “Discovering Cued Speech,” which can be accessed by filling out a free membership application.
• The National Cued Speech Association keeps an updated calendar of in person and virtual conferences, events, workshops, and camps for practice in cueing and connecting with others.

General Language and Communication Resources

• Communication Considerations A to Z™ is a series from Hands & Voices that is designed to help families and the professionals working with them access information and further resources to assist them in raising and educating children who are deaf or hard of hearing. 
• Setting Language in Motion is a free video series that explains early hearing loss, communication options, and family support. These seven videos are included: Early Identification, the Ear and Testing, Hearing Aids, Launching Language and Communication Through Sign, Cochlear Implants, Communication and Language in the Home, and Family Supports.

Listening/Auditory

Children who are deaf or hard of hearing may use hearing assistive technology (HAT) to support listening and spoken language. This might include hearing aids or other devices. Cochlear implants, which are medically implanted devices, also support listening and spoken language use. Children using this approach often benefit from services such as aural rehabilitation (training in listening skills) or auditory verbal therapy (AVT).

These services may be provided by professionals from speech/language pathology or audiology.

• Advanced Bionics has compiled a learning resource page specifically supporting listening and speaking for families to do at home with their children.
• AGBell Association offers information and supports for families pursuing the listening and spoken language path.
• Equal Voice for Deaf Children An organization which supports talking, listening, and auditory verbal therapy, including mini lessons for families to do at home with their children.
• Hearing First is an organization which focuses on connecting families with other families whose children listen through hearing assistive technology and speak. They also have play activities and strategies for supporting listening and speaking at home.
• Listen to Me Strategies in Action, is a resource developed by Baker Institute for Children with Hearing Loss. It includes clips of families using simple listening and speaking strategies at home.
• The Listening Room offers free interactive learning activities and lessons promoting speech, listening, and language for all ages.

Signing Exact English (SEE)

• SEE is a manual system that shows English grammar and word order through signs. Speech language pathologists, deaf educators, or interpreters may know SEE. Ask about their training and experience.
• Learn SEE With Me offers 8-week online courses through Zoom with an instructor to learn Signing Exact English.
• Northwest School for the Deaf offers online SEE classes.
• Region 13 has an S.E.E. Center offers training and support for those who want to learn or improve their Signing Exact English skills.
• SEE (Signing Exact English) Resource Page is a curated list of resources compiled by the Outreach Center.