EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION FOR DEAF CHILDREN
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world” - Nelson Mandela
Deafness or hearing loss is not a defect that will stop the future of a person. Deaf children are the same as the others, they need guidance as well as love. Early childhood education is the key for them to build up their future lives.
First Year
2-4 years
According to studies, at this period of time it is a crucial moment for children to master a language this is the same for the deaf children. Language refers to a sound system adopted by human group yet it can't be applied to deaf children because they can't hear. However, to ensure deaf people able to master the language of speech they need to have the basis of their first language which is their mother tongue. Hence, it is important for the deaf children to have the opportunities to learn the language. This program focus on fines motor and gross motor skills, communication in sign language, game, singing and formation of mind.
Second Year
3 - 5 years
Deaf children at this age are ready to proceed to the next step which is their second language --- the spoken language based on their ability right after the mastery of sign language. It is believed that through the mastering of sign language in communication they are actually able to express their thoughts through it. Therefore, children at this stage will be guided to improve their language into the spoken language through speech therapy or writing skill.
Transitions to Kindergarten Class
5 - 6 years
Deaf children who have been mentally and physically prepared they will be facing actual challenges in pre-school education that follow the main curriculum. In this stage, they will be exposed to Malay and English teaching and the guidance will be given to master it. At the end of the program, we will ensure that they are well prepared to enter the elementary school education program.