Almost exactly a year ago, IDK posted a piece about explaining deafness in concept books for children – which also educate teachers and other adults!
One of these books, My Brother John (published May 2008), introduces deafness, hearing aids, cochlear implants & sign language in a single story.
The story, told from the perspective of John’s sister, Caroline, subtly explains things like when the aids are not on, John can’t hear you, what sign language is, and increases deaf awareness from a child’s perspective.
Children with deafness and hearing-aids are currently under-represented in childrens’ books. This is surprising, with their obvious value in explaining key concepts, and giving deaf children a fictional character to identify with.
Note: IDK will launch its own childrens’ book later this year, in partnership with Special Stories. Keep an eye on both of the websites for further details.
