Parents and their deaf children: the early years. Kathryn P. Meadow-Orlans, Donna M. Mertens and Marilyn A. Sass-Lehrer, Gallaudet University Press, Washington DC, 2003, 256 pp, ISBN 156368 137 4

Abstract

For a long time research into deaf children's language acquisition and development has focused on the mechanics of hearing, listening and speech production. Recently, however, there has been a move towards considering other aspects of their lives and how these can impact on their future. This book is the outcome of one such study that addressed the vast area of deaf children and their parents and identifies particular issues for consideration. It is based on the results of a survey completed by 404 parents of deaf and hard of hearing 6-7-year-olds living in the United States. The questionnaire was followed up by interviews with 80 parents, which set out to detail the experiences of a group of American parents and their deaf or hard of hearing children. It moves away from a clinical study to provide a broad view of life with a deaf child. It does, however, retain sufficient scientific scrutiny to ensure it holds it credibility as a research project. The use of anecdotal illustration shapes the whole book, making it readable and accessible, and it realistically highlights the complexity of this area of research.The responses to the survey were wide and varied and have provided a wealth of information regarding the choices, experiences and attitudes of parents, to circumstances and professionals, that is presented in a clear and accessible way. The layout of the book has been determined by the information obtained and each chapter tackles a different area such as 'Communication Conundrums: Family Solutions' and 'Additional Conditions; It takes A Te am'. Within each chapter the main points addressed are clearly Book reviews 127