With more opportunities to play outside, make friends at camp or enhance your cannonball splash, summer brings new ways for children to have fun and explore. For families of children who are deaf or hard of hearing, this season can also present challenges.
To provide solutions to these common considerations, we spoke with Kimberly Boreland, MA, MEd, Teacher of Deaf and Virtual Learning Specialist at Clarke, who recently hosted a virtual workshop focused on summer success strategies for Clarke families.
The Power of Families Connecting
Boreland’s commitment to supporting families of children with hearing loss stems from a fundamental belief: no parent should feel alone on this journey. Through parent support groups at Clarke, she creates safe spaces where families can share experiences, ask questions and learn from one another.
“By connecting with other parents, families gain emotional support, practical tools and a stronger understanding of how to speak up for their child’s needs,” Kim explains. “Our goal is to empower families with knowledge and build community.”
"By connecting with other parents, families gain emotional support, practical tools and a stronger understanding of how to speak up for their child's needs. Our goal is to empower families with knowledge and build community."
Common Summer Challenges
The summer months present some hurdles for children who are deaf or hard of hearing and their families, specifically related to weather and environmental considerations. Families must navigate:
- Increased exposure to water and humidity
- Outdoor activities with varying noise levels
- Camp settings with (potentially) unfamiliar staff
- Travel situations requiring backup equipment
The most common concern we hear from families? Managing and protecting hearing equipment around water activities. However, with proper planning, families can still enjoy safe, engaging summer experiences while keeping devices protected and children fully participating.
Five Expert Tips for Summer Success
- Water Safety Planning Use waterproof accessories when available or establish safety protocols like buddy swimming systems to ensure inclusion without compromising device protection.
- Create Equipment Kits Assemble portable kits with batteries, drying cases, cleaning supplies and protective covers. Ready-to-go preparation prevents technology disruptions during activities.
- Staff Education Meet with counselors and activity leaders in advance. Explain your child’s communication needs, device management requirements and necessary accommodations.
- Vocabulary Building Opportunities Transform summer outings into learning experiences. During zoo visits, nature walks or beach days, narrate activities, label objects and create experience books to build language skills.
- Embrace New Experiences Don’t let concerns about the unknown prevent exploration! Whether trying new activities, camps, or travel destinations, approach opportunities with optimism. Even unsuccessful attempts provide valuable learning experiences for the entire family.
Families Support Families
Family support workshops at Clarke welcome families with children of all ages, creating powerful intergenerational learning opportunities. Parents of younger children gain insights from experienced families, while veteran parents step into mentoring roles they once needed themselves.
“It’s a beautiful full-circle moment to witness,” Kim reflects. “I’m truly grateful to be able to facilitate that connection and growth within the community.”
Through expert guidance, community support and practical strategies, families can ensure their children experience summers filled with adventure, learning and joy.
More Resources
Find more Clarke resources on summer enrichment for students who are deaf or hard of hearing here:
