education 159
Separate deaf classes in local schools
In some schools, deaf children spend the entire day in a separate
classroom and see hearing children only during
breaks. In other schools, deaf children spend
part of the day in classrooms with hearing
children, learning art or doing exercise. The
ages and abilities of children in the special
class may vary.
Benefits of learning only with other deaf children
• Most deaf schools and classrooms have teachers with special training
to teach deaf children. These teachers can usually meet the deaf
children’s needs and attend to each child.
• Deaf children feel less isolated when they can communicate with all
the people around them.
• Deaf children have opportunities to play, learn, develop social skills,
and create friendships.
• Children can meet and
interact with deaf adults
who work at the school.
• Some deaf schools
or classrooms also
help deaf children
get hearing tests and
hearing aids.
Difficulties of learning only with other deaf children
• Deaf children who study in separate schools may not learn how to
live and interact comfortably with people
in the ‘hearing world’.
• The schools may be far away
and costly.
• Classes may include children
of different ages. It may be
difficult for teachers to meet their
different needs.
Helping Children Who Are Deaf (2004)