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ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Title: 'How to Capitalize on the Window of Language Acquisition' Track: 3 - Language Acquisition and Development Keyword(s): early intervention, language acquisition, parents Learning Objectives: Explain to parents or other professionals about the critical period of language acquisition in parent-friendly terms. Develop tools to incorporate ASL-English bi-modal bilingualism in a child's support services at school and home as appropriate. Identify latest research in brain development and language acquisition as applicable to a deaf or hard of hearing child. Abstract: Research has proved over and over that there is a critical time period for language acquisition, and we know that at the end of this period, at around 7 years of age, the “window” of opportunity is said to “close”, resulting in challenges in language acquisition as the child grows older. This often causes concern in parents as they work with professionals to provide services to their child as early as possible. This presentation will share the latest information on this topic in parent-friendly terms including a recent TIME article on how bilingualism can enhance a child’s window and how parents/teachers can capitalize on this approach in early intervention services, school, and at home. Parents and professionals alike will appreciate hearing the latest research along with receiving specific tips on how to utilize this knowledge in their daily life and work with young deaf and hard of hearing children, from peer modeling to parent/teacher interaction. Presentation: This presentation has not yet been uploaded or the speaker has opted not to make the presentation available online. Handouts: Handout is not Available
PRESENTER(S) / AUTHOR(S) INFORMATION
Tawny Holmes - Primary Presenter,Author National Association of the Deaf      Credentials: M.A. in Family Centered Early Education, J.D. and Esq. J.D. Certification in Early Intervention Leadership       Tawny Holmes is the Education Policy Counsel at the National Association of the Deaf. She graduated from the University of Baltimore School of Law. In addition to her law degree, she has a Master of Arts in Family Centered Early Education. Ms. Holmes has worked three years teaching deaf and hard of hearing students. She is also a godmother of four deaf children.       ASHA DISCLOSURE: Financial - No relevant financial relationship exist. Nonfinancial - No relevant nonfinancial relationship exist.