The formation of meaningful communication in children who are deaf

Communication is at the core of the human experience. It is one of the main ways we form our sense of self through the creation of shared meanings. This experience is altered for individuals who are deaf. The notion of the best method to facilitate the development of communication in children who are deaf has changed historically and today is still greatly debated. Parents and educators of the deaf have a number of communication modes to choose from. Of these different communication modes the Bilingual/Bicultural mode seems to allow for the greatest possibilities of shared meaning. Children in this environment have unrestricted access to a complete visual language and have the opportunity for role model and cultural experiences. The greater the ability to communicate freely, the greater the likelihood of shared meaning