missywinks
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Question: Does anyone know of any articles or resources on the importance of signing environment for deaf clients with developmental disabilities?
Me again. I thought I would give you a little bit more background. I am seeing lots of deaf clients with developmental disabilities leaving our residential program (after graduation) and being put in a non-signing adult environment and their well-being and skills have declined as a result. I have talked with the clients and they are NOT happy. So I have arranged a meeting with the Coordinator of the program and I would appreciate any resources or information that I could share with her. P.S. I am in Canada, so ADA wouldn't apply.
I know the group home owner hired the two of my deaf friends to work with deaf developmentally disabled clients. I feel they knew my friends knew ASL and are deaf, and could reach and relate to the clients better VIA ASL. My friend said the clients will rebel and not even attempt to work with the staffs that do not know ASL.. Who can blame them? They are already challenged and frusterated. Let alone they need someone they can communicate with.
I agree with you. That is what is happening with my former clients now...it would be nice to have something published, or some information to share with the Coordinator to show that it is not just my perspective.
I agree with you. That is what is happening with my former clients now...it would be nice to have something published, or some information to share with the Coordinator to show that it is not just my perspective.
At my 2nd job I work for CSSD...Community Support Services for the Deaf....it is a GREAT program for deaf adults with developmental disabilities. Maybe you can contact them for advice?
Developmental Disabilities Administration
Let me go through my research stash, missywinks. I'm sure I'll be able to come up with something pertinent.