COMMUNICATION WITH THE DEAF:

SOME QUICK DO’S:

1. Look straight at the Deaf, speak clearly, but don’t needlessly holler and embarrass them

2. Learn the deaf person’s name, &/or the "sign" for their name

3. Maintain eye contact with the deaf while talking, or signing

4. If needed, don’t be afraid to write back and forth. Many Deaf must do this all the time.

5. Be sure and include deaf people in group conversation. They don’t like being left out any more than you do.

SOME QUICK DON’T’S:

1. Don’t cover your mouth when speaking, or turn another way and keep talking. They need to watch your mouth.

2. Don’t ever refer to the deaf as "Deaf and Dumb", "Deafies", or as disabled. The best way is just to refer to them as "Deaf". Some terms are highly offensive to the Deaf.

3. Don’t treat the Deaf as on a lower level -- like children, or incapable of thinking or acting normally. They can’t hear, but their minds work like the minds of hearing people. Treat them as equals.

4. Don’t stare at the Deaf, or ridicule them. They are sensitive to social graces, too.

5. Don’t try to be over-helpful. Be natural, and watch for unoffensive ways to help.