Deaf Mentor Family Services
Deaf Mentor Family Services is comprised of three different programs: the Deaf Mentor Family Program, Snapshots and EMPOWER!
Deaf Mentor Family Program
The Deaf Mentor Family Program (DMFP) is offered to families who have a Deaf or Hard of Hearing (DHH) child. While the focus is on younger children, the DMFP is available to any child ages birth to 21.
How It Works
- Deaf Mentors use curriculum from the research-based SKI-HI Institute which supports, teaches, facilitates and models with families ways to promote communication and early language skills that best meet the needs of their DHH child.
- Deaf Mentors are Deaf or Hard of Hearing themselves and are fluent in American Sign Language (ASL). They have an easy communication style with family members who hear and genuinely enjoy working with children.
- “Design Your Own Deaf Mentor Family Program” is offered to families with the intent to customize their learning plan as well as provide a flexible schedule.
- Families begin with Bravo!, an online video introductory course that leads to home visits.
- Visits occur where it is most convenient for families — at home or their preferred alternative location. This also provides a comfortable environment where children can learn best.
- During visits, families learn ASL and other communication techniques unique to DHH children. In this relaxed setting, family members are encouraged to ask questions about ASL, Deaf culture and daily life as a DHH individual.
Apply for the DMFP today!
We offer our application in English, Spanish, Hmong and Somali:
- Deaf Mentor Family Program Application.
- Solicitud para el Programa de Mentores Sordos para las Familias.
- Kev Pab Cuam Txhawb Qhia Ntawm Cov Neeg Lag Ntseg Hauv Yim Neeg Daim Ntawv Thov.
- Codsiga Barnaamijka Hagaha Qoyska Qofka Maqal Beelka ah.
Deaf Mentor Qualifications
- Deaf Mentors have completed training using the SKI-HI Deaf Mentor Training Curriculum, offered by the SKI-HI Institute in Utah.
- Deaf Mentors have been chosen based on their fluency in ASL, ability to communicate easily with hearing families, comfort with young children and ability to support family decisions.
- Deaf Mentors also receive ongoing training to provide services in accordance with “A Plan for Mentorship of Minnesota Families with Deaf and Hard of Hearing Children."
Snapshots
The Snapshots service is for families with children newly identified as deaf or hard of hearing.
- Snapshots is coordinated by medical professionals and DHH teachers with the DMFP. It introduces your child and family to individuals from the DHH community and their technology options.
- This service provides opportunities to address practical concerns in a less formal, more personal setting.
Empower!
Empower! consists of eight, one-hour sessions focused on self-advocacy skills for deaf and hard of hearing youth (ages seven to 21).
- Introduces your child and family to a role model who is DHH and uses similar communication modalities.
- Offers the opportunity to discuss topics such as peer friendships using technology, self-esteem, identity and thinking about the future.
Resources
- Resources for Families.
- Insights, Perspectives and Experiences Shared by Adults Who Are Deaf or Hard of Hearing.
Funding
LSS’ Deaf Mentor Family Services are funded in part by the Minnesota Department of Human Services Deaf, DeafBlind and Hard of Hearing Services State Services Division.
Contact with Questions
Emily Smith-Lundberg
Deaf Mentor Family Services Director
Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota
709 University Avenue West
Saint Paul, MN 55104
