Save the Date: Launching LEAD-K Michigan
Building a Strong Language Foundation for Children Who Are Deaf or Hard of Hearing
The first five years of a child’s life are critical for brain and language development. For children who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing (DHH), or DeafBlind, early access to language is essential—and that’s where LEAD-K comes in.
LEAD-K (Language Equality and Acquisition for Deaf Kids) is a national movement to end language deprivation and ensure all children who are DHH have access to language milestones and literacy tools—whether they use American Sign Language (ASL), spoken English, or both.
Michigan is now launching its own LEAD-K initiative, and they invite you to join us at one of three regional events to learn how you can be part of this important work.
🗓️ Event Details
Each event runs from 4:00 – 7:00 PM and includes a light dinner, presentations, and interactive learning for:
- Families of children ages 0–5 who are DHH
- Early childhood professionals
- School staff and community providers
👨👩👧 Note: Children are welcome to attend with their adult caregivers, but there will not be childcare or planned activities provided.
📍 Northern Michigan
Date: Monday, June 9, 2025
Location: Haggerty Center
715 E. Front Street, Traverse City, MI 49686
📍 Eastern Michigan
Date: Monday, June 16, 2025
Location: Wayne County Community College District
1001 W. Fort Street, Detroit, MI 48226
📍 Western Michigan
Date: Monday, June 23, 2025
Location: Eberhard Center
301 W. Fulton Street, Grand Rapids, MI 49504
🔍 What You’ll Learn
- How LEAD-K Michigan is supporting kindergarten readiness for DHH children
- Language milestones in ASL and English
- Tools and assessments to track progress from birth to age 5
- Ways families and providers can be leaders in promoting early language access
Whether you’re a parent, early interventionist, preschool teacher, or advocate, this event is for you.
📣 Be a Voice for Young Children
We believe that all children in Livingston County—and across Michigan—deserve a great start. That includes access to the language and communication tools they need to grow, learn, and thrive.
Let’s work together to ensure every child who is DHH enters school ready to succeed.
