Join us for SO MUCH FUN in Summer 2023!
Montana Family ASL is a guided support program for families who want to become bilingual in English and American Sign Language (ASL). The program is always free for families.
Montana Family ASL is a language learning program for families with deaf and hard of hearing children. If you have a deaf or hard-of-hearing child, you are eligible to receive this service free of charge!
Our program focuses on language practice & learning through hands-on play. Participation is always free for families. Our primary mission is improving language access for families that include deaf or hard-of-hearing children, but enrollment is open on a rolling basis and everyone is welcome to apply. Please let us know if you’re interested!
Sign up today to receive a box of toys and activities that will support your family in learning and using American Sign Language. Upon registering, you will also receive an invitation to weekly Zoom meetings for parents which will include demonstrations, support, and connections to other families.
English + ASL = Healthy, happy, whole children
MT Family ASL offers two programs:
- Cultivate Language Program for families with very young children (ages 0-4)
- Cultivate Literacy Program for families with kids in the kindergarten range (ages 4-8)
Toys & Materials
After enrolling, you will receive a box full of toys and instructional materials for activities that support ASL use with your family
Coaching Meetings
We provide regular online meetings where you have access to expert advice & instruction, plus connection with other families
Individual Support
Participating families also get individualized support (meetings, materials, activities, advice, and/or visits) as needed
Montana Family ASL provides guidance for parents who want their families to be fully able to communicate in both English and American Sign Language. Our curriculum and activities are designed by ASL specialists and based on both scientific evidence and years of experience. We will help your family navigate the process of learning ASL as adults, teaching ASL to older children, and supporting babies and toddlers in acquiring ASL naturally.
Everyone benefits when your family is bilingual! Deaf children have complete access to communication, information, and social/emotional development. Hearing children can communicate easily with other ASL signers. People of all ages benefit from learning a second language and participating in another culture. And with a strong foundation in ASL, school-age deaf and hard-of-hearing children perform at age level across the board.
Start your family’s journey to ASL bilingualism today!
Get in touch and follow MT Family ASL!
Montana Family ASL is a collaboration between Conservatory ASL Northwest and Dr. Cecily Whitworth. Dr. Whitworth is a deaf Montanan who has a Ph.D in Linguistics and 15 years of experience working with ASL learners of all ages. She is based in Missoula, where she lives with her enormous dog, Big.
collaborates with the following organizations...
We are always on the lookout for resources and connections to expand opportunities for families with D/HH kids. Please contact us if you are interested collaborating!
Thank you to our sponsors!
To make this program accessible to all families, there is no charge for participation. You can give the gift of language to more families with your tax-deductible donations!
Donate to the program above or purchase supplies directly from our Amazon wish lists:
Montana Family ASL is a program of Conservatory ASL Northwest (C.A.N.).
C.A.N. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to facilitating knowledge sharing and social interactions in American Sign Language in the American Northwest. C.A.N.’s federal ID number for donations is 83-3489128.
Thank you so much for your support! Together we CAN!
