• A Quarantine Tool Box for Parents and Guardians of Children who are Deaf/Hard of Hearing:  This 7-part series of short videos provides “tips and tricks” during this difficult time for addressing moments of conflict or behavior management challenges.  Videos are done by Trish Grooms, a seasoned counselor who has worked with families and students who are Deaf/Hard of Hearing for decades.

  • Introduction

     
    Trish Grooms introduces herself and shares the purpose of this series as well as a couple other  important messages such as getting help and accessing resources.

    Different Types of Communication

     
    ​Trish shares the importance of communication regardless of the modality and model samples of different types of communication that can be used in place of signing such as drawing pictures, gestures/mime/roleplaying, pointing/showing.  (All ages)
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    Communication Barriers and Breakdowns

     

    ​This video briefly discusses language deprivation, information overload, perceptions, inattention, and emotions; and how they could be considered barriers at different ages. Trish Grooms shares that communication barriers can be considered a trigger in frustration levels increasing leading to possible negative consequences.
     
    		  

    Identifying Triggers

     

    ​Trish shares how to examine your own emotional triggers as well as your child or children’s.   She also gives examples of other possible triggers that could lead to escalating behaviors or increasing frustration and stress such as communication barriers, family friction, or events such as difficult news or financial stress, etc...
     
     

    De-escalating Situations

     

    ​This video discusses strategies of de-escalating aggressive or irrational behaviors.  Trish gives examples at different age levels.  It is important to be safe and provide strategies for instilling a sense of well-being and security in your children, assuring them that you want them to feel and be safe.
     
    		  

    Composure and Self Care

     

    ​Trish shares the importance of picking your battles and gaining composure bringing feelings of anger, frustration, etc. under control.  She briefly discusses the possible consequences when adults are not able to control themselves when addressing child behaviors.  She explains to parents that everyone has limitations and thresholds for dealing with things. That being said, self-care is important.  She also provides examples for parents of different self care activities.
     
     

    Fun Things to Do as a Family While Quarantined (without signing)

     

    ​Trish shares different ideas of activities families can do without having to sign.  She also provides some tips on how to modify activities to fit your family.