Bedtime Book Series

The Bedtime Book Series is an innovative initiative designed to support literacy development and English language foundation for all children, but particularly for children of Deaf adults (CODAs) by making story time inclusive an accessible for the Deaf Community.

By providing these stories in both spoken English and American Sign language, it affords the opportunity for Deaf parents and hearing children to read together while allowing the child to receive the benefits of hearing the story being read out loud in spoken English. Additionally, this initiative can be utilized in reverse, with a parent that is hearing and a child who is Deaf.

Stories were recorded and the videos can be watched here: Bedtime Book Series Videos

Children’s Hearing Aid Program

Understanding the importance of this vital resource for a child’s development, AURORA of CNY has created the Children’s Hearing Aid Program (CHAP).  This program provides economically disadvantaged hard of hearing school-aged children, free to low-cost hearing aids. Along with the hearing aids, AURORA also ensures the child receives the accompanying services such as a hearing exam and on-going refits for the hearing aid(s).

By providing hearing aids, AURORA is ensuring these children can be successful in school ready and have the supports to thrive.

Pre-Vocational & Work Experience Training

Blind, Deaf, or Hard of Hearing youth between the ages of 10 and 21 receive a continuum of pre-vocational training, career exploration, work skills development and experience through a variety of programs.

Participants engage in interactive group trainings, mentorship relationships, daily living skills training, and community-based volunteer assignments.

Programs incorporate many professionals, business leaders and human resource specialists from around the region to provide participants with the latest and best practices for career and life success.

For Blind youth, they have the opportunity to participate in Work Experience Training where they receive paid summer employment opportunities.

Socialization for Blind/Visually Impaired Children & Youth

AURORA’s socialization group or “Super Kids” brings children and youth together for fun, accessible activities, and playing with others just like them!

This group also provides parents an opportunity to meet other families that face similar challenges.

Outings have included apple picking, bowling, and adaptive horseback riding.