The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) helped pave the way for easier communication between the hearing and deaf or HOH individuals. Passed in 1990, the law was a major turning point for the deaf community in the United States. The ADA sought to level the playing field for those with disabilities by requiring public and private entities like schools and telecommunication services to provide accommodations for those who are deaf or have hearing loss. In addition, employers are no longer allowed to discriminate against those who are deaf or HOH. But what about at home? Are you certain your deaf or HOH loved one feels included in the conversation?

Today's Tips, Tools and Conversations Lunch and Learn tackles the topic of ensuring effective communication with your deaf or hard of hearing family members. Dona Harris is the CEO/ Executive Director of Great Day Family Connections, Inc. (GDFC) , a family enrichment and community engagement organization providing activities, educational forums and events promoting parent/child and community interactions. The organization's goal is to ensure welcoming accessible communication to families of children who are deaf or hard of hearing. In addition, GDFC provides sign language classes through its "Hands Up!" Sign Language program,

Topics to be covered include:

- How can parents/siblings better communicate with their deaf or hard of hearing family member?

- What are some mistakes family members unknowingly make when it comes to communicating with their deaf or hard of hearing family members?

-What accessible technologies are available?

- What are some of the results/outcomes of not ensuring effective communication within the family of a deaf or hard or hearing family member?