Response: Hello, Mr. and Mrs. Black, I understand your concerns regarding Samantha. I know you are loving, concerned parents and only want what is best for your daughter. It is important to know your options for her. However, whichever option you choose will require your full dedication. I understand that a previous professional told you that if your daughter learns sign language, she will not learn to use speech. I am delighted to tell you that this is not true. Several studies have been completed that debunked the notion that sign language inhibits speech learning.
In fact, a recent research study published by Gallaudet University states that early acquisition of sign language by deaf children actually helps the child to learn spoken, as …show more content…
Furthermore, early access to language, whether it be signed or spoken, is the best predictor of positive spoken language outcomes.
Language is how children develop social, emotional, and cognitive abilities that are crucial to timely development across areas. It is important for deaf children to establish an early communication system with their families, develop cognitive abilities, obtain a worldly knowledge, and communicate in their environments. Many experts also agree that without appropriate opportunities to learn signed or spoken language, children who are deaf face an uphill battle to participate with their world at a level that is equivalent with their hearing peers. Signing would give your child the advantages and opportunities to be able to develop, communicate, and participate in their world.
The National Association of the Deaf also mentions research on the benefits of signing. The research showed that signing does not interfere with spoken language. In fact, expressing your language through signing is a significant predictor of speech acquisition. Signing and speech do not hinder one another, instead, they promote and aid one another.
I do encourage you to do as much research as you can. There are many options you can choose that will best fit Samantha and your family. However, whichever path you choose will require your full dedication and effort for the success of Samantha. If you have any more questions or concerns, I will be more than willing to assist
In fact, a recent research study published by Gallaudet University states that early acquisition of sign language by deaf children actually helps the child to learn spoken, as …show more content…
Furthermore, early access to language, whether it be signed or spoken, is the best predictor of positive spoken language outcomes.
Language is how children develop social, emotional, and cognitive abilities that are crucial to timely development across areas. It is important for deaf children to establish an early communication system with their families, develop cognitive abilities, obtain a worldly knowledge, and communicate in their environments. Many experts also agree that without appropriate opportunities to learn signed or spoken language, children who are deaf face an uphill battle to participate with their world at a level that is equivalent with their hearing peers. Signing would give your child the advantages and opportunities to be able to develop, communicate, and participate in their world.
The National Association of the Deaf also mentions research on the benefits of signing. The research showed that signing does not interfere with spoken language. In fact, expressing your language through signing is a significant predictor of speech acquisition. Signing and speech do not hinder one another, instead, they promote and aid one another.
I do encourage you to do as much research as you can. There are many options you can choose that will best fit Samantha and your family. However, whichever path you choose will require your full dedication and effort for the success of Samantha. If you have any more questions or concerns, I will be more than willing to assist