social skills 133
Look for opportunities to teach your child signs and words for strong
emotions. This will help him know and understand his emotions. When
he does, he will find it easier to talk or sign about his emotions rather
than acting them out.
Those men are
very angry, Moshe.
Sometimes you
feel angry too.
Like when Aminata
broke your toy.
Reward good behavior
When a child behaves well, he is treated well by the people around him.
When your child is behaving well, praise him. A child wants the love
and approval of his parents and others, and he will repeat the behavior
that brings praise and attention. A few comments during the day, or
giving him a hug or a treat, will go a long way to encourage good
behavior.
Teaching a deaf child good behavior takes patience and hard work.
But once he begins to develop social skills and behaves well, it will be
easier for him to make friends, join the community, and eventually
go to school.
• Praise her when she does
something well.
Good job, Sisi!
Mother encourages
Sisi when she tries to
wash her clothes.
• Reward good behavior
rather than problem
behavior. Give your
child a smile or a loving
pat when you like the
way he is behaving.
Helping Children Who Are Deaf (2004)