17th ANNUAL EARLY HEARING DETECTION & INTERVENTION MEETING
March 18-20, 2018 • Denver, CO
3/20/2018 | 3:00 PM - 3:30 PM | Why Deaf Culture? - Considerations Shared by a Hearing Mom of a Deaf Child | Capitol 3
Why Deaf Culture? - Considerations Shared by a Hearing Mom of a Deaf Child
The presenter will discuss the important issue of cultural considerations that come into play when a child is identified as deaf/hard of hearing. Along with the medical and audiology discussions that take place with families, families and babies could benefit from a discussion about deaf culture. According to Deafology, a term used by Ken Glickman, in order to understand where we are now, we need to value a connection to history and the keeping of traditions. An historical overview will explain how the past view of deafness has moved from a negative trait to today where Deaf culture and pride flourish. Discussion will occur about the increasing use of Cochlear Implants and how some in the deaf community feel like they are reliving the past. People advocate for families to know about deaf culture sooner rather than later so the child doesn’t experience an identity crisis, as well as the family not to experience an identity crisis. Personal stories, and stories shared with the presenter during her years working with families, will be shared about the process of learning sign language and deaf culture. Suggestions for professionals working with families to help support the healthy development of the child’s identity, self-esteem and self-confidence will be offered.
- Participants will learn about the history of deaf culture, as understood by a hearing mom
- Participants will learn about a personal family's choice and journey in learning deaf culture
- Participants will learn positive and strength-based terminology that can be used when discussing deafness
Presentation:
15805_7854ConnieStevens.pdf
Handouts:
Handout is not Available
Transcripts:
15805_7854ConnieStevens.docx
Presenters/Authors
Connie Stevens
(), UW-WI Madison, supporting WI Department of Health Services, cstevens4@wisc.edu;
Connie began work in EHDI after receiving news that her seven month old daughter, who has Down Syndrome, was also deaf. She delved into researching best practices and available resources. For five years, she was Program Director of Shore to Shore, for families with D/HH members, coordinating and leading literacy-based playgroups, parent support groups and sign language classes. Connie has been involved with Wisconsin Families for Hands & Voices since its inception. Connie was a Guide By Your Side Parent Guide. Since 2009, she's worked with Wisconsin Sound Beginnings, representing the parent perspective, helping reduce loss to follow-up by connecting with families and providers, and connecting with families and Early Intervention Programs post-identification. Connie attends many EHDI, D/HH and family support conferences. She co-authored the state’s “Babies and Hearing Loss Interactive Notebook”. She was also a member of the National Center for Cultural Competence-NCHAM Community of Learners.
ASHA DISCLOSURE:
Financial -
No relevant financial relationship exist.
Nonfinancial -
No relevant nonfinancial relationship exist.