What the Mother of a Deaf Child Ought to Know

"What the Mother of a Deaf Child Ought to Know" by John Dutton Wright is an informative guide focusing on the education and care of deaf children, written in the early 20th century. This book serves as a resource for mothers, emphasizing the vital role they play in fostering communication and development in their deaf children. Its primary topic revolves around effective methods and strategies for parents to support their child’s speech and social skills, thus aiming to bridge the gap caused by hearing impairment. In this book, Wright provides a comprehensive overview of the crucial steps a mother should take once she is aware of her child's deafness. He outlines the importance of early intervention, advocating for continuous communication and active engagement with the child to nurture their understanding of language. Through detailed chapters, he explores various aspects of supporting a deaf child, such as developing their mental faculties, encouraging imaginative play, and training them in speech and lip-reading. Wright also addresses the role of schools and suggests community efforts by parents for better educational opportunities. Overall, the book is a blend of practical advice and encouragement for parents to be proactive, fostering a nurturing environment that allows deaf children to thrive.