2026 Language & Literacy Symposium
SISP is so excited to be part of the ASL Up Network’s 2026 Language & Literacy Symposium!
Sign up to gain access for a full year of content, including Sarah’s presentation about our films and how we are reimagining access.
About the panel
What if learning to read were fun? What if you became so immersed in a story, through beautiful ASL signing and animated illustrations, that you didn’t even realize that you were learning at all, you just wanted to know what happened next? What if you were able to enjoy these storybook films in a mixed audience of Deaf, hard of hearing and hearing viewers, each of you feeling fully welcomed?
Our presentation takes you along on a tour of this journey, deep-diving into the films produced by Sally Is Sarah Productions (SISP), a company founded on the idea that stories bring us together. We celebrate each person's uniqueness and understand that our differences are just as valuable as our similarities. Our films feature Deaf actors presenting the stories of inspiring characters who, despite the obstacles they encounter, find a way to chart their own paths. Our aim is to reach, educate and showcase people with all types of abilities, backgrounds and experiences.
As one educator told reflected, “I have tears in my eyes thinking of the validation and acceptance this story brings to people who watch it. You are bringing wonderful stories to life for all children.” Come see for yourself! Everyone is welcome here.
About the symposium
This online symposium brings together families and professionals committed to strengthening language and literacy outcomes for deaf, hard of hearing, and deafblind children.
Beginning May 1, 2026, participants will have year-long access to recorded sessions and two live keynote presentations designed to inspire, inform, and support meaningful practice.
DCMP is an Approved RID CMP Sponsor for Continuing Education Activities. This activity has been approved for RID CEUs.
Des Plaines Public Library
Sally is Sarah Productions will be here to show an ASL storytime film called Knitting for Dogs, followed by a Q&A and a craft!
Crom Saunders, one of the film's actors and artist of Sally is Sarah Productions, will make an appearance after the film for a Q&A, giving children a wonderful opportunity to connect with someone in the Deaf community.
This will be followed by a craft organized by the Chicago Hearing Society.
All ages. Registration required beginning May 15th.
AGE GROUP: | Kids |
EVENT TYPE: | Youth Program |
TAGS: | Storytime | Film | Cultural | Art and Crafts |
WORLD PREMIERE: Knitting for Dogs - An ASL Story
ASL Up Network is proud to host the world premiere of Knitting for Dogs – An ASL Story, a beautifully produced ASL story created by Sally is Sarah Productions.
This engaging ASL story brings the beloved book to life through rich visual language, creativity, and storytelling. Designed to be accessible and meaningful, the production supports language and literacy development for Deaf, hard of hearing, and hearing children, families, and the professionals who support them.