The Greatest Irony March 16, 2008

Hearing infants benefit from sign language, which accelerates their English development and increases their IQ points (www.babysigns.com, www.kidsign.com ).  DBC emphasizes that Deaf infants deserve the same benefits!

American Sign Language’s (ASL) benefits: With the advent of Baby Signs**, it is clear that ASL benefits hearing babies.  Their English development is greatly accelerated, and families experience less frustration.  Therefore, if ASL is good for hearing babies, ASL is even better for Deaf babies and children.** www.babysigns.com         and      www.kidsign.com

Auditory-Verbal Therapy (AVT): AVT, actively backed by the Alexander Graham Bell Association, has stated a position where Deaf babies should be “taught” without the use of sign language or lipreading.  AVT also actively discourages parents and family members from using sign language or accessible English.**AG Bell Academy, Principles of Auditory-Verbal Therapy, 2007

You All Inspire Me! March 16, 2008

Yes, I’m feeling more connected to the ‘historical movement/rights’ era… and how we have SOOO MUCH WORK to do to pull together our cherished Deaf community back together!! From babies,
youth, young, adults, and elders. It is all about humanity! The circle of life…

What agbell has done…. is obviously split our community. We need to reach out to those who have been disconnected from our cherished Deaf culture and community! Reconnect everyone together again to create +++++ positive +++++ movements, steps and go forward with PRIDE! Heads up, chins up, smileeee and shine! Show ur light for we know we are right.

This is a humanity rights issue for us too. We may or may not realize we are always fighting something daily. We dont have to let that drain us. We can become light from it and move forward!

You all inspire me!

Kristen Weiner