The statement 'The majority of deaf and hard of hearing students are born to hearing families who will provide them access to fluent language early' is true.

The statement 'The majority of deaf and hard of hearing students are born to hearing families who will provide them access to fluent language early' is true.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not sure
• D. Somewhat

Answer: (B)

The statement is false. Most deaf and hard of hearing students are born to hearing families, and these families often do not provide fluent access to language early. Early, accessible language exposure is crucial for healthy language, cognitive, and social development. When fluent language isn’t available from birth or soon after, children can experience language deprivation, which can impact literacy and academic progress. Families may eventually learn sign language or pursue other accessible language options, but providing fluent language access early is not guaranteed for the majority.

The statement is false. Most deaf and hard of hearing students are born to hearing families, and these families often do not provide fluent access to language early. Early, accessible language exposure is crucial for healthy language, cognitive, and social development. When fluent language isn’t available from birth or soon after, children can experience language deprivation, which can impact literacy and academic progress. Families may eventually learn sign language or pursue other accessible language options, but providing fluent language access early is not guaranteed for the majority.