If your child is d/Deaf or hard of hearing, it can affect your whole family. A variety of resources are available to help both you and your child find support and education.

National Organizations and Resources

Massachusetts-Specific Organizations and Resources

How and Where to Learn American Sign Language (ASL)

There are many ways to learn American Sign Language (ASL) so you can communicate with your child. Here are some options:

Language First: Language First offers a list of online and virtual resources for learning ASL for parents, families, children, and professionals.

ASL at Home: ASL at Home is a program for teaching ASL to families of deaf and hard of hearing children. The lessons are organized around routines such as mealtime, bath time, toileting, book sharing, playing, etc., so you can begin learning how to bond and communicate and support your child right away with the language they need. They offer a book in English and Spanish — with connected videos, flashcards, and worksheets — that can be purchased in print form (paperback) or downloaded as a PDF:

Families of deaf or hard of hearing children can also apply to get the PDF for free, courtesy of Sacramento State University:

ASL at Home also offers online classes.

SignOn: SignOn is an online ASL tutoring and mentoring program that provides families and children with a 1:1 Deaf ASL Ambassador/teacher for a personalized learning experience to meet the language needs and goals of each family and child.