…is Deaf (including those who views self as hard of hearing and may have acquired American Sign Language at varying points in their young lives or later).

…has ASL skills, both expressive and receptive. ASL Deaf Mentors must exhibit fluency in ASL. Hard of hearing mentors would need basic sign communication skills to interact with other Deaf team members and to support families who are also using signs with auditory-oral skills.

…is well trained in early intervention principles and receives basic training and ongoing professional development.

…helps families gain an understanding of what it is like to be deaf, so that they, as parents, can better facilitate some of the experiences that their child may have as they grow up.

…teaches the family ASL in a manner that is structured and designed specifically for families of infants and young children, and acting as a guide and/or facilitator into the local Deaf community, including where and how the deaf people who may not use ASL live their lives.

…monitors with the families the deaf child’s language development and progress according to standards (and/or stages).

…is actively involved in the Deaf community and events where the families may be involved in for mutual support and enjoyment.

…is kept abreast of current trends, research and discussions pertaining to best practices.

…partners with the Early Interventionists serving the child and with the child’s educational team to ensure the child reaches his/her full potential.