LITERACY
FHSR focuses on literacy for deaf and hard of hearing (DHH) children. Reading drives language acquisition and enhances every child’s overall development. Our goal is to apply our unique knowledge of DHH education to support early literacy and pre-literacy skills. By creating a strong literacy base for DHH children, we aim to help them develop to their fullest potential.
FHSR stepping forward to set a new standard of care in supporting the education of DHH children in Illinois. Our initiatives include trainings for parents, caregivers and Early Intervention professionals and a unique book scholarship that allows parents and caregivers to receive a free book each quarter from a vetted list of titles featuring characters with hearing loss, assistive devices and communication modes that mirror their child’s identity. Below, you can view resources and recommendations and access our Education Coordinator for more information.
The biggest hurdle to our kids accepting their equipment is the feeling of “Yes, this is part of who I am – this is important.” That can be hard when you don’t see anyone else that also has [hearing loss] as a part of them. Any time that we can get free books into families hands is great – but the fact that all these books feature characters with hearing loss and different types of equipment is really big.
– Tonya, Teacher of the Deaf and Development Therapist of Hearing
Literacy Training for DT-H and SLP’s:
- Wednesday March 19th 6:00 – 8:00 pm
Literacy Training for Parents and Caregivers:
- Saturday April 12th 9:30 – 11:30 am
Cary Library
These seminars are FREE to attend, but registration is required!
Secure your spot today by signing up.
EARLY LITERACY TRAINING SEMINARS
Reading aloud to Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) children is a powerful way to promote language development, build literacy skills, and create strong bonds through shared stories. For DHH children, reading aloud helps provide visual language exposure, promotes comprehension, and fosters a deeper understanding of the world around them. At FHSR, we are committed to ensuring that these children have the resources and support they need to become confident, lifelong readers.
In honor of this mission, we’re offering two upcoming literacy training workshops designed to support families and providers in partnership with CHS – Chicago Hearing Society :
📅 Virtual Literacy Training for DT-H and SLPs
Date: March 19, 2025 6:00-8:00 PM (Virtual)
- Free workshop focused on effective strategies for story-sharing and literacy development with DHH children.
- 2 hours of EI Education Credits available.
- Complementary set of books featuring characters with hearing loss for all providers attending the workshop.
📅 Literacy Training for Parents & Caregivers
Date: April 12, 2025. 9:30-11:30 AM
Location: Cary Library, 1606 Three Oaks Rd, Cary, IL 60013
- Free training for parents of DHH children ages 2-5.
- 4 complimentary books featuring characters with hearing loss.
- FREE Musical Storytime will be provide for children who’s parents/caregivers are attending the workshop.
- ASL and Spanish interpreters available upon request.
We’re committed to helping foster early literacy in the home and empowering DHH children to develop strong language skills and a love of reading. 🌟
New Parent Resource Downloads Now Available!
Developed by Dr. Anna Tess our Education Coordinator, our Education Resources deliver valuable insights and information. All downloads are available in English and Spanish.
- The Parent Resource Guide has information about parent rights, the IEP process, accommodation and modifications for children with hearing loss and 504 plans.
- The Early Literacy Guide provides strategies and information to help you read with your child.
- Additional resources including Milestones and Deaf with Disability.
LITERACY BLOGS
FHSR is committed to the gift of literacy and the importance of reading for children with hearing loss on their life trajectory. To support your family in your literacy journey, the Foundation has partnered with Chicago Hearing Society to create blogs about reading to DHH children and helping your child learn to read on their own.
BE A PART OF IT ALL.
Share the joy of literacy with a child.
Your donation to the EARS (education, advocacy, resources) Literacy Program is critical to bringing our services and programs to the children who need them most.
