DEAR Week, Day 2: Back to School!

Youth and Family Connections

Welcome to DEAR Week 2024!

Day 2: Back to School!

When chatting with Deaf adults, one of the first things they will share is what kind of school they attended. The time we spend in the classroom is important to how we think about ourselves and our peers. Whether you're in a mainstream class, Deaf program, or something different, school helps us decide who we are. Today, let's reflect on our school experiences: past, present, and future!

ASL STEM Storybooks

Check out these bilingual STEM storybooks created by Atomic Hands! With amazing illustrations, ASL signing featuring STEM signs, and an easy-to-use website, these free books are out of this world.

See their library here.

"If You Take a Mouse to School"

Read by Pineapple and Cheese

"David Goes to School"

Read by the Statewide Outreach Center

We're Going to School (2023): Tammi Salzano

Picture Book

Going to school can be overwhelming but soon it becomes part of a wonderful daily routine! Let's follow along with a group of students from different backgrounds and experiences as they get ready, attend class, and explore their emotions connected to these new school routines.

You're Welcome, Universe (2018): Whitney Gardner

Middle Grade

Julia finds herself as the only Deaf student in a mainstream school after her graffiti gets her expelled. No one seems to care that she did the graffiti to cover up a slur against one of her friends. In the new mainstream environment, Julia feels alone until she finds a kindred spirit; someone is adding to her art around town! Now she just has to find them.

Strong Deaf (2012):

Lynn Mcelfresh

Middle Grade

Sisters Jade and Marla don't have a ton in common. Jade is the only hearing person in her family and Marla attends a Deaf school out of town. When they end up on the same softball team one summer, they will have to figure out if they can work together. Told in alternating perspectives, this story explores making the family you're stuck with into the family you choose.

Waiting for a Sign (2014):

Esty Schachter

Middle Grade

Shelly used to be close with her brother Ian until he leaves her behind to go to a Deaf residential school. When he returns, now with a strong Deaf identity, Shelly must try to get to know the new him and rebuild their relationship. More than that, she must figure it out fast - Ian's school is in danger of closing and he needs her help!

Want more recommendations? Check out last year's DEAR newsletters!

ISRC Library

Are you a family looking for behavior supports, games, or books? Are you a professional looking for teaching tools and assessments? The Illinois Service Resource Center (ISRC) library is just what you need! Take advantage of online resources or borrow by mail with return postage included. There's also PD modules for credit hours and families can complete online Parent University trainings and earn free gift cards for completing them! There's something for everyone at ISRC.

See what's available here.

Want YFC to read with you?

Youth and Family Connections partners with schools and families to provide READ Days. A Deaf, DeafBlind, or Hard of Hearing adult goes into classrooms to read with students, foster a love for reading, and connect with students as a DDBHH role model. We also give out free books donated by the American Library Association!

Request a READ Day!

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Disclaimer: CHS does not necessarily endorse the content of the recommended books. It is the responsibility of teachers and family members to ascertain the appropriateness of the texts for their readers.

CHSYouth@anixter.org