ASL version

If you are DeafBlind or prefer to watch the video in a slow-paced, high contrast format, watch the DeafBlind friendlier ASL version instead.

English version

Building a Foundation of Language sets children up for academic and emotional success. Visit this new series of films to learn tips and strategies for interacting with deaf and hard of hearing children.

There are two series:

1. Family Series: For families of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Children
2. Professional Series: For professionals working with families of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Children

About the Family Series

In this new webinar series, family members will learn strategies and best practices for interacting with their child during every day routines. This will help children learn language and emerging literacy. Children who have a strong foundation in language and mindfulness practices, have better outcomes in school and have a more positive sense of self.

About the Professional Series

In this new webinar series, professionals who work with families will learn how to coach families on communicating with their young deaf and hard of hearing children during every day routines. Professionals will learn how to help families practice interactive strategies, which will support language and early literacy with their child. Children who have a strong foundation in language and mindfulness practices have better outcomes in school and have a more positive sense of self. Professionals have an important role supporting families. Professionals should watch the Family Series first and then watch the Professional Series.

Where to access the videos

All videos in this series are in American Sign Language (ASL) with English voiceover and captions. Descriptive transcripts have also been provided. You can find the videos at: Building a Foundation of Language Video Series. 

Contributors and credits

Videos Featuring:

Leala Holcomb Ph.D.: Narrator

Haruna Matsumoto: Parent

Oceana Matsumoto: Child

Aaron Waheed, MEd: Mindfulness Guide 

Video content/ASL scripts created by (in ABC order):

Debbie Golos, Ph.D. 

Leala Holcomb, Ph.D.

Brynn Roemen MEd

Damon Timm (Video Production) 

In collaboration with:

Anna Paulson MEd

Anne Sittner Anderson 

Accessibility: 

Kaitlyn Mielke - English translations 

Keystone Interpreting Solutions, Estina Beldon - captions

Keystone Interpreting Solutions, Patty McCutcheon - voiceover

Credits (for announcement videos)

The Minnesota Commission of the Deaf, DeafBlind & Hard of Hearing thanks:

James Beldon III for ASL talent

Patty McCutcheon for voiceover 

Keystone Interpreting Solutions for film production