CODA Day 2026: Fostering Identity for Children of Deaf Adults

At a parent-teacher meeting, a student faces social anxiety when her parents communicate exclusively through sign language, a challenge that mirrors her attempt to deflect curious inquiries on a train by labeling their signing a 'mom bread' ritual. The ISH News Host recounted an instance where a child felt uncomfortable at a parent-teacher meeting, noticing her parents were the only ones communicating through signing.

In another anecdote shared, a daughter on a train invented a 'mom bread' ritual to avoid explaining her parents' deafness to a stranger who noticed their signing. These personal experiences underscore the internal conflict and potential shame CODAs may internalize regarding their parents' identity and communication methods.

CODAs often struggle with their parents' deaf identity, despite the broader deaf community's pride in its culture and Indian Sign Language. The ISH News Host emphasized the need to move away from feelings of shame, aiming to help these children embrace their parents' language and unique heritage.

The objective is to include CODAs more actively within the deaf community, bridging the emotional and communicative gap that can sometimes exist between them and their deaf parents. This inclusion aims to cultivate a sense of pride in their CODA identity.

Signing Hands Foundation and CODA India are organizing CODA Day 2026 on April 26th in Mumbai, with venue support from AYJNISHD. This event is specifically designed for CODAs and KODAs aged 5 to 18 to explore their identity and experience deaf culture.

The day will feature various activities, including games, food, and prizes, aiming to help children connect with their peers and develop pride in their parents' communication style. Registration costs 450 rupees and closes on April 23rd, with only 30 seats available.

AYJNISHD provides the venue for a collaboration between the Signing Hands Foundation and CODA India, which opens its doors to children aged 5 to 18 on 26th April 2026. The venue is supported by AYJNISHD, providing a dedicated space for this important gathering.

The event is specifically tailored for Children of Deaf Adults (CODAs) and Kids of Deaf Adults (KODAs) falling within the age group of 5 to 18 years. It will run from 9:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., offering a focused half-day program.

The event focuses on strengthening the bond between children and their deaf parents by promoting pride in sign language.

It encourages children to confidently use and embrace sign language in front of their hearing friends, fostering an environment where they can make new CODA friends and contribute to the growth and visibility of the deaf community.

The 450-rupee registration fee covers all food and participant goodies, though organizers note that prospective attendees must secure one of the 30 available spots before the 23rd April 2026 deadline. Participants also have the chance to win prizes during various games and activities planned for the event.

Attendance is limited to 30 seats, and the registration deadline is April 23rd, 2026. Organizers encourage parents to seize this opportunity to help their children build lifelong connections and foster a strong sense of identity.