Participants were all consistent in their advice to parents who may find out that their child is Deaf.  Their message to other Deaf and hearing parents would be ‘don’t panic and don’t get upset’.  Contact should be made with professionals who can provide you with information, advice and support.  Undertaking some research will enable you to become more aware of British Sign Language and how it opens the door for you and your child.  BSL will help accommodate future learning and so your child’s potential is limitless.

Going to Deaf clubs and meeting Deaf people of all ages can be extremely helpful in finding out about available support.  Communicating with other parents who have a Deaf child can also be helpful in sharing experiences and learning from each other.

Participants commented that family members or friends may naturally lose their hearing as they get older.  Therefore, exposing your child and your family to the Deaf world can have benefits, particularly if they have learned to sign even a little, at an early age.