Presents study analyzing gestural communication of hearing children between one and two years of age, comparing it with the communication of a deaf child of deaf parents exposed to sign language since birth. Results suggest that the capacity to combine symbols, referential words, or signs simultaneously depends on exposure to a linguistic input. (…

Studied across a 16-month period, young children of deaf parents showed accelerated early language development, on the average producing their first recognizable sign at 8.5 months, their tenth sign at 13.2 months, and their first sign combination at 17.0 months. Findings are inconsistent with previously reported patterns of synchrony between…

This review of research on language development of hearing children of deaf parents identified three areas of focus: (1) oral language development; (2) sign language development; and (3) mode of communication--oral and/or manual. Areas of future study are suggested. (Author/DB)

Evaluates a comprehensive intervention program for deaf children under age three in Vancouver, British Columbia. Twelve subjects were compared with a matched sample of children undergoing less-systematic intervention. Results indicated more developmentally mature communication and higher quality interaction in families who had received…

This document includes a final report, manual, and booklets from a project conducted to develop an instructional video program and related print materials, combined with literacy training, peer sharing, and reading practice opportunities targeted to families of young children in which at least one member is deaf. In the video program, vignettes…

This booklet provides information to families with young children who are deaf or hard of hearing to assist them with communication, socialization, and education choices. It provides: (1) a description of each of the various modes of communication available for use with and among children with are deaf or hard of hearing, including American Sign…