((BSA #33061 © 1978 1994 printing)  

Starting on page 23 there is, graphically displayed, fingerspelling - the signed alphabet for the hearing impaired. What follows are photographs of Scouts and Cubs demonstrating; The Scout Law; Motto; Slogan; and Oath; and the Law of the Pack; Cub Scout Motto; and Promise in Signed English RATHER THAN American Sign Language.

In order to understand hearing disabilities there is an explanation of the differences between pre- and post-lingually acquired hearing impairments, and the difference between those and being simply hard of hearing, and the education of children.

Wouldn’t it be interesting to work with youth who live by signs rather than those who take time when the sign is up? or how about you old-timers who regret the demise of semaphore? But, I digress....

Discussed are opportunities for the Hearing-Impaired Boy in a Unit of Hearing Boys; the communications between both; restrictions on participation; and current trends and mainstreaming. Also discussed is a Scouting program in a school for hearing impaired youth, and advancement from Bobcat through Eagle, in the Cubs, scouts, and Exploring. Suggestions are offered on the conduct of Den, Pack, Troop, and Patrol meetings, as well as special activities and the Outdoor program.

In a chapter on Special Considerations Social and Psychological needs are addressed, as too are hearing aids and situations such as swimming, darkness, and hiking.

Appendix 1 covers organizing a unit in a residential school, and the resources needed. Appendix 2 covers Training Aids and Appendix 3 notes published resources, both Scouting and Non-scouting. Signing is a language for which Scouts and Scouters can earn an interpreter strip.

Article XI, Section 3, Clause 19 of the BSA Rules and regulations reads, in part: ...under such rules and regulations as may be prescribed upon consultation with appropriate medical authorities, registration of boys who are either mentally retarded or severely physically handicapped...as Cub Scouts...over age 18 as Boy Scouts, or Varsity Scouts, and registration of young adults...over age 21 as Explorers, and the participation of each in the respective advancement programs while registered, is authorized.