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LEAD-K Michigan

LEAD-K Michigan

Welcome! Video

Welcome!

Language is everything; it's how your child will learn, connect, and thrive. Every child deserves full access to language. It's your child's right, whether that's signing, speaking, or both. This is your place for useful information, support, and connections with others who understand your journey.
About LEAD-K Michigan Video

About LEAD-K Michigan

Language Equality and Acquisition for Deaf Kids (LEAD-K) Michigan is an initiative aimed at supporting the language development of all children in Michigan who are deaf or hard of hearing (DHH), ages 0-5. Passed into law by the Michigan Legislature in 2022, Public Act 256 [PDF] recognizes that a strong foundation of language acquired early in life is essential for kindergarten readiness and future success.

Parents and families are the most important part of language development from birth to age 5. This website is dedicated to providing you with the resources you need to support your child.

You are in the right place!

African American grandfather reading a book with his grandson.

DHH Character Books

LEAD-K Michigan offers a collection of DHH character books to support Michigan families of children who are DHH, ages five and younger, in building a strong foundation of language and pre-literacy skills in the early years. Books represent a variety of characters who are DHH and include diversity of language, communication modalities, and hearing technologies. Requests are limited to one per household.
Request DHH Character Books
A young boy wearing a white sweater smiles while signing "thank you" in American Sign Language.

SignOn Sessions

LEAD-K Michigan offers 5 free SignOn sessions for Michigan families of children who are DHH, ages five and younger, to build early language and pre-literacy skills. Families will meet with a Deaf American Sign Language (ASL) Ambassador to learn and practice ASL, with each session tailored to their needs. Sessions are recorded for private rewatching, and scheduling is easy with availability 7 days a week. Requests are limited to one per household.
Request SignOn Sessions

Building a Strong Foundation of Language and Literacy Leading to Kindergarten

Request LEAD-K Materials Video

Request LEAD-K Materials

Promotional LEAD-K materials, including a brochure, sticker, magnet, and Language Milestones booklet, are available for providers and families to promote this initiative.
Materials Request Form

LEAD-K Michigan Contact

Elizabeth Flores, Program Manager

florese2@michigan.gov 517-614-9082