THE National Deaf Children's Society (NDCS) is next month holding an information and support weekend for families with a deaf child at the Royal School for Deaf Education in Exeter.

THE National Deaf Children's Society (NDCS) is next month holding an information and support weekend for families with a deaf child at the Royal School for Deaf Education in Exeter.

The free of charge weekend, from 17 April to 19 April, will bring together families from Exeter and local areas, who have recently found out their child is deaf, giving them the opportunity to find out about support available locally and nationally.

The weekend will be led by experienced NDCS staff, some of whom are also parents of deaf children and will bring their own personal experiences and insights of life with a deaf child.

Iain Simpson, NDCS Family Weekends Manager, said: "The weekend gives parents the opportunity to discuss issues such as communication and education, as well as trying out the latest developments in technology.

"Throughout the weekend, families will also meet deaf adults who share their very own unique insight into deafness and what it is like being a deaf child in the family.

"Most importantly, the weekend brings families together so they can talk, share experiences and understand they are not alone.

"The weekends are a powerful early effective support for families that helps them build a positive view of deafness.

"Parents who have opportunities to seek reassurance, meet other families and discuss their concerns are more likely to develop warm family relationships which in turn lead to higher levels of confidence and self esteem among their deaf children."

* This weekend accommodates 12 families only and takes place at Royal School for Deaf Education, 50 Topsham Road, Exeter, Ex2 4NF, from 17 April to 19 April 2009.

For further information on the weekend contact NDCS Events on 0121 234 9829 or email events@ndcs.org.uk. To book your place, please fill in an application form by visiting www.ndcs.org.uk/whats_on