Our programs
Language for families at home, and stronger teaching at school.
The Signs and Smiles app
Señas y Sonrisas (“Signs and Smiles”) is an early language learning app designed for hearing families with deaf children. It was developed under the All Children Reading grant program for childhood literacy.
Sign language learning
Community resources
Best practices for parenting
Bringing the app to more signed languages
Sign languages differ from country to country, so every family deserves the app in the language of their own Deaf community. The app is available in two sign languages today, a third is in development, and we would love to expand further.
How a new language version comes together
Partner with the local Deaf community
Deaf-led organizations and schools guide the content from the start.
Find local funding
Together we look for funders in the country or region to cover the recording process.
Record signs with Deaf signers
Vocabulary and lessons are filmed in the community’s own sign language.
Localize resources for families
Parenting guidance and community listings are adapted for each country.
We welcome Deaf organizations, schools, researchers, and local funders who can support recording.
Teacher development
Signs and Smiles provides professional development training for teachers in Central Mexico, building capacity for early language development among deaf children.
Programs on hold
These programs are not running right now. Contact us if you would like to help restart one.
Student scholarships
Grants to students, so that a family’s financial means don’t decide whether a child receives a quality education.
Travel/study excursions
Trips in service to deaf children: learn about deaf education abroad while exploring historic cities.