The phrase "Deaf Kids Can" is a well-known positive message that reminds every deaf child that they can do anything regardless of hearing loss. It gives them support and reassurance that they are not alone in overcoming the obstacles.
Type: Freelance Project
Client: Estefani Arevalo & Her Store Online — Thatdeafamilyshop.com
Tools: Procreate, Adobe Illustrator
Problem
Deaf children often have doubts about their potential in doing what normal children can do in everyday life during their childhood. They could be skeptical of their own abilities, which can affect their future in their career, life, and social life. Sometimes, they were not exposed to positive reinforcement that encouraged and taught them what they are capable of. Every child experiences a unique journey and can engage in everyday life like any other kid, while the world can be cruel and treat them differently.
Solution
This idea originated from Estefani Arevalo, a Deaf mother to Deaf and hard-of-hearing children. Arevalo wanted to raise awareness of this with the Deaf and hearing communities, as well as Latino and trilingual groups. Something to inspire all deaf children who are Deaf. Hard of hearing, and KODA (Kid of the Deaf Adult). For Deaf children with hearing parents, this support helps children feel seen and proud. For Deaf children with Deaf parents, it strengthens their sense of Deaf community and Deaf pride. And for KODA kids (hearing kids with Deaf parents), it teaches them to respect and celebrate both Hearing/Deaf cultures and their Deaf loved ones.
Outcome
This project aims to give Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing children encouragement and confidence in believing they can do anything they want to do. Wearing this shows them they’re not alone and that their Deaf identity is powerful in both Deaf and Hearing communities. The t-shirt sizes are available for everyone, from infants to adults.
This project also includes various Deaf identities: Deaf Kids Can, Deaf/HoH Kids Can, HoH Kids Can, KODA Kids Can, and Deaf Kids Can in Spanish.
