A short watch which is thought-provoking and worthy of reflective discussion amongst colleagues.
I use a book club format when using film as a professional reflection tool, with questions to prompt discussion and thinking. For example:
- What makes up Libby’s world?
- How does Libby feel?
- How do her parents feel?
- What are her parents’ motivations?
- What has informed her grandmother’s understanding of Libby’s capabilities?
- How do you think society views people with hearing impairments (current and/or historical understanding)?
- What is the role of the social worker?
- Where is the line between state and parental responsibility?
- What support is available for children with hearing impairments, parents, professionals?
- What could improve the outcomes of children with hearing impairments?
- Where does early years education fit in to this?
- How did the film make you feel?
- Will the film change your practice? If so, how?
This list isn’t exhaustive but it captures some of the main elements of discussions I’ve had on the film – your team will be different and bring different experiences to the discussion. Let me know if you have any other suggestions to include!
Synopsis: A deaf 4-year-old girl named Libby lives in a world of silence until a caring social worker teaches her to use sign language to communicate.
Watch The Silent Child on BBC iPlayer: https://bbc.in/2qsCIa0
Newton Oakley Education 