863d4237_ng_Families_for_Hands___Voices__6
[0] American Sign Language/ English as a Second Language (ASL/ESL) Bilingual/Bicultural [1] A manual language that is distinct from spoken English (ASL is not based on English grammar/syntax). Extensively used within and among the deaf community. English is taught as a second language. [2] To be the deaf child’s primary language and allow him/her to communicate before learning to speak or even if the child never learns to speak effectively. Since ASL is commonly referred to as "the language of the deaf", it prepares the child for social access to the deaf community. [3] Language is developed through the use of ASL. English is taught as a second language after the child has mastered ASL. [4] ASL is child’s primary expressive language in addition to written English. [5] Use of amplification is not a requirement for success with ASL. [7] If parents are not deaf, intensive ASL training and education about deaf culture is desired in order for the family to become proficient in the language. [6] 
Child must have access to deaf and/or hearing adults who are fluent in ASL in order to develop this as a primary language. If the parents choose this method they will need to become fluent to communicate with their child fully.
Wyoming Families for Hands & Voices
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