Family Mentor

As a Family Mentor, you’ll be a role model, demonstrating how to navigate the world as a Deaf person, passing on language and culture to the next generation of Deaf. By empowering hearing parents and welcoming families into the Deaf community, you’ll be nurturing the community leaders of the future. 

Why become a Family Mentor? 

1. Expert Training: You will receive training designed by Deaf leaders and Teachers of the Deaf. Best of all, you’ll be paid while training! You’ll also have plenty of opportunity for ongoing professional development. 
2. Supportive Team: Join Deaf Connect’s supportive and dynamic Early Intervention Team, where you’ll collaborate with professionals such as Teachers of the Deaf, Speech Therapists and Occupational Therapists. 
3. Make a Difference: You will become a part of Australia’s largest service provider for Deaf Australians! 
4. Network and Connect: You will join an international network of Deaf professionals through Deaf Aotearoa and Deaf Leaders International Association. 

In the role you will:  

• Support early parent bonding with deaf babies and children, creating a strong foundation for their development. 
• Model visual communication strategies to enrich understanding and communication. 
• Ensure access to Auslan (Australian Sign Language) to promote language acquisition. 
• Foster confidence and a positive identity through the concept of “Deaf Gain”. 
• Nurture early literacy – preparing children to read. 
• Support a smooth transition to school, setting them up for success on their educational journey. 
• Link families to the Deaf Community.