Dr. Leala Holcomb and Michael Higgins, both former teachers of the deaf with personal and professional ties to the Deaf community, bring rich expertise to Hands Land—a Deaf-led nonprofit promoting early signed language development. Through play-based approaches, Hands Land empowers families, educators, and children with resources, workshops, and consultations.
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Highlighting the importance of early, accessible language for deaf and hard of hearing infants, this video emphasizes how American Sign Language (ASL) supports communication, bonding, and cognitive development from the very beginning of life.
A tip sheet families can use to put family learning into practice: ASL, book sharing, play, and everyday routines that support their Deaf or hard of hearing child's language and connection.
Research shows early exposure to sign language benefits all children—deaf, hard of hearing, or hearing. Top 10 Signs introduces families and caregivers to ten everyday signs with engaging illustrations and Deaf-led videos, offering a simple, fun way to start signing with babies and toddlers.