How to Be a Friend Series
Building bridges and fostering continuous inclusive friendships between hearing and Deaf students in school communities.
Each featured Instagram post below is paired with a clear embedded breakdown overview explaining its core classroom purpose and instructional utility.
Instagram Post
Post 1: Saying Hi Matters
Learn how to introduce yourself to a Deaf friend in a warm, respectful way, using both your voice and your hands.
Helps hearing and Deaf students feel seen and welcomed from the very first "hi" in the classroom.
Instagram Post
Post 2: Knowing the Person, Not the Disability
See how to ask curious, kind questions that focus on who your Deaf friend is, not just their hearing difference.
Builds friendships based on shared interests and respect, instead of assumptions about disability.
Instagram Post
Post 3: First ASL Words
Get started with simple ASL signs that kids can use right away to say hello, share names, and start a conversation.
Gives all students a shared language starter kit so they can connect more easily during class and playtime.
Instagram Post
Post 4: Peer Advocacy
Empower students to vocalize their communication needs and support their classmates, fostering a culture of mutual respect.
Strengthens self-advocacy and proactive allyship in diverse classrooms.
How This Helps in the Classroom
Communication
Builds essential visual and signed vocabulary to connect students across diverse communication styles.
Empathy
Teaches hearing children to see the world from a Deaf perspective, expanding emotional awareness.
Inclusion
Creates an active environment where every child feels naturally welcomed, respected, and valued.
Self-Advocacy
Uplifts Deaf children by encouraging them to share their unique identity and express classroom needs.