Saydo. Enhancing the experience of communication between hard-of-hearing/deaf children and their hearing parents through design

Abstract

How can hearing parents communicate meaningfully with their deaf or hard-of-hearing child before spoken language emerges? SAYDO is an interactive, game-based tool designed to enhance early communication between DHH children (ages 2–5) and their hearing parents, by learning sign language together in a collaborative, playful way. The setup includes a central screen that rotates between players and a collection of engraved wooden tokens embedded with Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) chips. An animated figure demonstrates a sign; the player facing the screen imitates it, while the other identifies the matching token. The machine detects the RFID and provides visual or haptic feedback. A solo mode allows children/or parents to practice independently as well. Developed using inclusive and user-centered design principles, Saydo was shaped through interviews with a sign language teacher (Zentrum für Gehör und Sprache Zürich), a deaf artist specializing in DHH children (Gehörlosen-Fürsorgeverein der Region Basel), and co-design input. Prototyping involved A/B testing, real-time feedback trials, and the creation of a highly functional version using Python, screens, and sensors. Gender-neutral communication was also considered. Saydo offers not only a tool for language acquisition but a space for emotional connection, empathy, and inclusive learning.