Youth Programs

Empowering Deaf and Hard of Hearing Youth

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Summer Camps

About Youth Programs

Our programs and competitions are open to students in grades 2 through 12 and will support your child in developing their identity, knowledge, skills, leadership, and self-confidence.
Gallaudet University Youth Programs
student works on laptop at youth summer camp

Academic Bowl

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Battle of the Books

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National Literacy Competition

National Literary Competition

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Summer Youth Camps

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Youth debate finals

Youth Debate Bowl

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Step Up to the Challenge

Our competitions promote a spirit of academic competition and good sportsmanship while encouraging critical thinking skills amongst deaf and hard of hearing students.
Every year, Gallaudet University hosts up to 80 teams of deaf and hard of hearing youth from all over the nation. Pursue excellence, sportsmanship, and lifelong friendships at the Academic Bowl.
Get ready because this isn’t your typical Summer Reading List. Promoting literacy among deaf and hard of hearing middle school students, Battle of the Books brings a unique competitive edge to reading. Hit the books and compete with schools from all over the nation in this exciting book trivia competition.
The National Literacy Competition challenges and inspires deaf and hard of hearing students in grades 2-12 to showcase original written or ASL material at a national level.
The Debate Bowl is an annual competition open to individual high school and middle school deaf and hard of hearing students currently enrolled in any K-12 school in the world.

Summer Camp Your Way

Our Summer Camps let middle and high school students experience stimulating learning and activities in an ASL/English environment minutes from the U.S. Capitol.

Immerse Into ASL is an excellent opportunity for deaf and hard of hearing students entering Grades 10-12 to expand their American Sign Language (ASL) skills and learn more about Deaf culture and history. We offer beginner and intermediate course levels.
Immerse Into ASL
Discover Your Future is for deaf and hard of hearing students entering Grades 10-12 who want to learn more about themselves, their skills, and potential careers. With possible tracks including DeafBiz, Digital Media, and ACT Prep, students will connect with peers and develop a portfolio while they enjoy the sights and culture of Washington, D.C.

Bison Brainiacs lets students entering grades 10-12 explore the ever-expanding world of science and technology. Take part in hands-on experiments, learn about our local ecosystem, test innovative technologies, dive into neuroscience, and participate in the STEM Decathlon, all with the beautiful backdrop of the Gallaudet University campus. Did we mention it’s free?

Design your own camp! “Got Skills?” lets students in grades 7-9 have their choice of eight sports and activities to create a custom camp experience. Experience a whole week of sport and academic fun, visit Six Flags America, tour Washington, D.C., and play in the Olympic-style Bison Games.

Deaf Youth Pride is a camp for students entering grades 9-12 who identify as a part of the LGBTQIA+ community. Learn the skills to become an advocate for yourself and others through workshops and activities that will immerse you in knowledge and belonging.

Gallaudet University athletics offers youth summer camps that give campers direct ASL instruction, including volleyball and basketball clinics. Strengthen, prepare, and boost your student-athlete with a fun, memorable experience.
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