Just Deaf

How much language input is necessary for proper acquisition of a language?

Scientific Literature

Lasagabaster, D. (1998). The Threshold Hypothesis Applied to Three Languages in Contact at School. [PDF] International Journal of Bilingual Education and Bilingualism, 1(2), 119e – 133.

Sharen Unsworth (Radboud University): multilingualism

Learning sign language

"In Norway they offer sign language to babies at school."

"I think it's good, learning sign language from both a hearing and a deaf teacher."

Why is it important to start learning sign language before your child gets a CI?

Why is the first year of life so important for language acquisition?

Can children learn sign language at school?

How early should you start learning a (first) language?

Is it difficult for parents to learn sign language?

Why is it important for children to learn sign language if they have a CI?

"When Guus was three years old we were taught sign language at home."

"It was a blessing in disguise, since we wanted to learn a new language anyway, and we enjoy it."

"At the day care they watched the Lotte & Max DVDs with the children, and that's how they learned how to sign."

"The best response is when people ask: could we join you for one of those sign language classes?"

"I learn all kinds of signs from Guus."

"I had to sign in public for the first time -- that was quite a big step."

"Guus' first sign was MOMMY!"

"When family counseling started, we were taking sign language classes."

"We run into all kinds of situations where we're forced to use sign language. That's quite exciting."

How can you learn sign language as a parent?

Why is it important that parents learn sign language too?

"The sign language classes evolve alongside your child."