Opportunity to Experience Deaf Culture

Hello Friends,
Are you fascinated by sign language?  Whenever I tell someone that I work with deaf students, sign language is the first thing they ask about.  There are many other aspects of my work, but it was the pull of the language that first drew me to deaf education.  And it's still the most fun part.  (What other language allows you to talk with your mouth full or have a conversation across a crowded room without interrupting anyone?!)

The Iowa School for the Deaf is providing an opportunity for people to come and experience deaf culture on Friday, March 26th.  They're hosting a Family Fun Night from 7 to 9 p.m. that is open to the public.  They will have a carnival set up and concessions available.  All games will cost 25 cents.  I spoke with a staff member today and learned that students from area schools come to participate along with the students from ISD.  All families are welcome.

Worried about not knowing the language?  Many of the teachers at ISD are hearing, and you will see a lot of "Simultaneous Communication" - speaking and signing at the same time.  You might also be surprised at how far gestures can go.

If you'd like to learn a few signs or brush up on your skills ahead of time, the ASL Browser is a free site that has an alphabetical list of words with Quicktime video clips of the signs.  They have hundreds of words, and the video clips really help you learn them correctly.  This was one of my favorite sites when I started learning sign language.  The first book I bought was Signed English: A Basic Guide.  It's organized by category and has lots of everyday signs with good illustrations.  Between the two, I learned enough signs to start conversing with a deaf student without an interpreter.  (Fortunately, she was very patient with me!)

And if all else fails, you can always communicate with a notebook and pen.  (Try doing that in another country!)

If you or your kids are interested in sign language, the Family Fun Night at the Iowa School for the Deaf would be a great opportunity to experience a unique culture and language.