Empowered by Stories: Buidling Self-advocacy with D/HH Characters in Children's Literature
**Included in the Professional Academy**
Discover the power of picture books as tools for teaching self-advocacy, independence, and identity to D/HH students! This interactive session will explore how children’s literature featuring D/HH characters can foster meaningful discussions, build confidence, and provide relatable role models for students. Attendees will leave with a curated list of engaging picture books, ready-to-use strategies for integrating them into instruction, and creative ideas for helping D/HH students find—and use—their voices in everyday life. Whether you're a teacher, parent, or support professional, you'll gain fresh inspiration and practical tools for empowering young readers to turn the page and take charge of their stories.
Here's what will be covered:
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The identification and exploration of picture books that feature Deaf and Hard of Hearing characters to promote representation and connection for D/HH students.
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Strategies for using children's literature to teach self-advocacy and independence skills in developmentally appropriate and engaging ways.
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The development of an action plan for incorporating Deaf-centered picture books into their educational or support practices to foster confidence, identity, and empowerment in D/HH students.
