22/12/2025
Often, when we ask our Deaf students their siblings’ names, they say, “girl,” or “baby.” When we ask who their cousin is, they shrug. Hearing children overhear their family members’ names dozens of times a day: parents calling each other from another room, siblings being praised or warned, cousins being referred to. However, Deaf children don’t necessarily overhear that, and too often, no one stops to clearly sign: This is your brother. His name is Scott. Without intentional language access, the people they love most can remain unnamed.
How can we help our Deaf children learn their family members' names?
💙 Introduce names intentionally | Don’t assume Deaf children will pick it up or overhear it. Clearly sign: This is your sister. Her name is M-A-Y-A. Repeat often.
💙 Use names in real moments | During play, routines, and transitions: Maya is washing her hands. Ben is coming in the room.
💙 Create visual name cues | Photos on the wall, labeled pictures, or a simple family book with names and signs can help.
💙 Fingerspell consistently (or teach name signs) | Make sure names are accessible, consistent, and used by everyone in the home.
💙 Slow down and check understanding | Ask Who is that? What’s their name? and model again if needed.
