Being a Child of Deaf Adults, more commonly known by the English short form, Child of Deaf Adult (CODA), presents a unique experience growing up in a bilingual and bicultural household. CODAs are children raised by one or more deaf parents, who primarily communicate through sign language, yet they themselves are typically hearing. This dual exposure offers CODAs a fascinating blend of the hearing and deaf worlds. But it also brings a series of challenges, opportunities, and responsibilities that shape their lives.
The Unique CODA Experience
For a child of a deaf adult, their early years are often characterized by being an essential bridge between their deaf parent(s) and the hearing world. Whether it’s translating spoken words into sign language, helping their parent navigate social settings, or even making phone calls on behalf of their parents, CODAs often take on the role of an interpreter from an early age.
This experience fosters strong communication skills, maturity, and empathy. CODAs learn to communicate in ways that go beyond verbal language—they become proficient in interpreting facial expressions, body language, and the nuances of sign language. Growing up in such an environment can also build a deep respect for the deaf community and a unique perspective on communication.
The Role of Hearing Aids
Whether or not a deaf parent uses hearing aids significantly impacts the CODA experience. If the parent wears hearing aids, it can open up different forms of communication and facilitate interaction with the hearing world. Hearing aids amplify sound, allowing the parent to hear some environmental sounds or even spoken language, depending on their level of hearing loss. This might reduce the child’s need to serve as a translator in some situations, though the CODA still likely interprets in more complex settings.
In households where the deaf parent doesn’t use hearing aids, the reliance on sign language is often stronger. CODAs in these homes typically play a more active role in interpreting spoken language into sign language for their parents. While this can be an additional responsibility, it also deepens their bilingual proficiency and understanding of both cultures.
CODA Challenges
While being a CODA can be enriching, it can also come with emotional and social challenges. The role of "interpreter" for their parents can sometimes feel burdensome, especially for younger CODAs who might struggle to balance their roles as both a child and a liaison between two worlds.
Socially, CODAs might feel a sense of isolation or "in-betweenness." They are part of both the hearing and deaf communities but might not feel fully immersed in either. In school or social circles, they might have to explain or justify their unique family situation, which can be difficult, especially if others are unfamiliar with deafness or sign language.
Opportunities and Strengths
Despite these challenges, CODAs develop an array of strengths. They often become effective communicators, empathetic listeners, and adaptable individuals. CODAs possess a strong sense of cultural awareness and an appreciation for diversity that serves them well in various aspects of life.
CODAs are also in a unique position to be advocates for the deaf community. Many CODAs grow up feeling a deep sense of responsibility toward advancing the rights and recognition of deaf individuals. Whether they pursue careers in deaf education, sign language interpretation, or advocacy, CODAs often become passionate defenders of accessibility and equality.
The life of a CODA is filled with both unique responsibilities and profound rewards. Whether their deaf parent uses hearing aids or relies solely on sign language, CODAs are shaped by the experience of being a bridge between two worlds. The combination of bilingualism, cultural awareness, and empathy they develop positions them as uniquely skilled individuals who often carry the legacy of both the hearing and deaf communities into adulthood.
