“Every child deserves a champion — an adult who will never
give up on them, who understands the power of connection
and insists that they become the best they can possibly be”
Far too frequently, dDeaf/hoh children are placed in foster homes where they have no access to language. dDeaf/hoh children need to be placed in signing homes immediately after removal. Placing them in homes with foster families who are “willing to learn” isn’t enough. It is crucial that dDeaf/hoh children are placed in language rich homes. Research shows that language deprivation impacts a child’s cognitive development (their intellectual and adaptive functioning) and can lead to psychological disorders (such as anxiety, depression, behavioral and emotional disorders, PTSD, etc.). This results in a lower quality of life.
Advocates say better accounting of deaf and hard-of-hearing children in the state’s care and better access to translators are needed.
Texas CASa
Expert Q&A: Deaf & Hard-Of-hearing children in foster caretand out
Whatever it is, how you tell your story online can make all the difference. Change is brought about by knowledge. Texas Court Appointed Child Advocates (CASA) interviewed Andrea to understand more about the obstacles and limits that dDeaf/hoh children face and how CASA volunteers and other advocates can assist them.
Every month, Texas CASA CEO Vicki Spriggs celebrates community individuals who make a difference in the lives of foster children. In this month's episode, Vicki talks with Andrea about dDeaf/hoh children and their unique challenges in the foster care system.