Youth and Family Connections
Welcome to DEAR Week, 2022!
Day 5: Get Visual!
Graphic novels and comics are a great way to engage reluctant readers. Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing kids tend to be especially visually oriented so graphic narratives can go a long way in helping them understand and connect with the stories they read. Check out some of the great graphic novels and comics that include DDDBHH characters!
"That Deaf Guy" Comic
Since 2010, Matt and Kay Daigle have been making comics about the Deaf experience. The comics revolve around a Deaf father, his hearing wife, and their CODA son. Sometimes light-hearted, sometimes serious, but always funny, this comic is a great cultural icon.
Nita's Day (2020): Kathy MacMillan
This adorable board book is a great way to introduce infants and toddlers to American Sign Language. The tabs on the side pull out to show signs that follow along with the story and they're fun, too! Follow Nita and her parents through their daily routine and use the winning combination of interaction and visuals to engage your youngest readers.
Secrets of Camp Whatever (2021): Chris Grine
Willow, a Deaf 11-year-old, is not so excited about moving to a new town. She's especially not excited about going to the creepy summer camp there. But when supernatural events and mysterious creatures start appearing, she and some new friends will have to be brave to get to the bottom of it.
Piper (2017):
Jay Asher & Jessica Freeburg
In this reimagining of the story of the Pied Piper, a traveling stranger claims he can use the power of music to resolve the town's rat problem. But that power has a darkness to it. Does Maggie's deafness protect her from his musical charms or is she at the most risk of them all?
Teaching Visual Literacy
Processing images and what they mean is an important skill! Visual literacy alongside textual analysis is a great way to ensure complete understanding and assists in reading comprehension.
Want YFC to read with you?
Youth and Family Connections partners with schools and families to provide READ Days. A Deaf, DeafBlind, or Hard of Hearing adult goes into classrooms to read with students, foster a love for reading, and connect with students as a DDBHH role model. Children also receive free books through a CHS/American Library Association partnership!
Disclaimer: CHS does not necessarily endorse the content of the recommended books. It is the responsibility of teachers and family members to ascertain the appropriateness of the texts for their readers. 
CHSYouth@anixter.org