Using stories to explain the structure of the family
In the past, CODA’s were often called upon to act as interpreters for their deaf parents – which could blur the roles of authority and power in the family.
This happens increasingly less nowadays as qualified British Sign Language interpreters should be available, but children may still a
ssist their parents’ communication in a more informal setting, for example in the home.
It’s important that your hearing children understand that sometimes you may rely on them but that at other times they must rely on, trust and obey you.
Stories are useful in reinforcing your role as a parent – helping to explain, for example, why children sometimes have to do what their parents tell them even if they don’t want to!
They also help in explaining about danger and about the consequences of ignoring parental advice.
And your children may find stories a non-threatening way to explain your deafness to their friends – they can share how they communicate with you with others. You can make stories up between you that your children can then tell to their friends.
