Young CODA's
CODA Camp
Are you ready for fun, friendships and unforgettable memories?
CODA Camp is an opportunity to spend time with other young CODAs, try exciting activities, learn new things and make friends who understand a little about your world.
Whether you love getting involved in everything or prefer taking your time to get to know people, camp is about having fun, being yourself and enjoying the experience.
Events & Activities
Who doesn't love a chance to make new friends and have fun?
We aim to bring young CODAs together through events, activities and opportunities to connect with people who share similar experiences.
From exciting adventures to relaxed get-togethers, there's always the possibility of making new memories.
Hey, Young CODAs! This Space Is for You!
Your family. Your experiences. Your story.
Welcome to your very own corner of CODA UK & Ireland!
Have you got one or two Deaf parents? Then you're a CODA, which stands for Child of Deaf Adults. And guess what? There are lots of other young people out there who are CODAs too!
Growing up with Deaf parents can be a pretty unique experience. Maybe you use sign language at home, have friends who are curious about your family, or sometimes find yourself explaining things that other people don't think twice about.
Whatever your experiences, we're glad you're here!
This is a place where you can discover more about being a CODA, meet other young people, make friends and celebrate everything that makes you, well... YOU!
What's It Like Being a CODA?
Here's the thing about being a CODA: there's no one way to be one!
Some CODAs use sign language every day, while others don't sign at all. Some grow up surrounded by the Deaf community, while others might not know many Deaf people outside their family.
You might love sharing things about your family with your friends, or you might sometimes wish people wouldn't ask so many questions.
You might have funny stories, proud moments or experiences that feel a little different from those of your friends.
And that's all perfectly okay!
Every CODA has their own story, and no two stories are exactly the same.
The important thing to remember is that you don't have to speak, sign, act or feel a certain way to belong.
Being a CODA is part of your story, and it's something you can explore in your own way.
Meet People Who Just Get It!
Have you ever met someone who understands something about your life without you having to explain it?
That's one of the best things about meeting other CODAs!
Imagine being surrounded by other children and teenagers who also have Deaf parents. People who might share some of your experiences, understand those little everyday moments, or have stories that remind you of your own.
You can laugh together, share experiences, ask questions and, most importantly, just enjoy being yourselves.
At CODA UK & Ireland, we love creating opportunities for young CODAs to meet, make friends and feel part of something special.
And you never know — the person you meet at your first CODA activity might become a friend for life!
Sometimes Being a CODA Can Feel Different. And That's Okay!
Being a CODA can be brilliant, but that doesn't mean everything is always easy.
Maybe you've had to explain something about your parents to a friend who didn't understand.
Perhaps you've felt embarrassed when people stared at your family signing in public, or frustrated when someone expected you to communicate for your parents.
You might sometimes feel caught between the Deaf and hearing worlds, or feel like nobody at school quite understands your experiences.
Or maybe none of those things have happened to you!
Whatever you feel about your experiences, your feelings matter.
You can love your family, feel proud of being a CODA and still have moments when things seem difficult or confusing.
You don't have to figure everything out on your own.
If something is bothering you, talking to someone you trust, like a parent, family member, teacher or another trusted adult, can really help.
And remember, you are a child or young person first. It isn't your job to take on grown-up responsibilities or be an interpreter for your family.
You deserve time to play, learn, make friends and enjoy growing up.
Your Family. Your Story. Your CODA Community.
Whether you're a confident signer, know just a few signs or don't sign at all...
Whether you have lots of CODA friends or have never met another CODA before...
Whether you're excited to get involved or just curious to learn more...
You belong here.
CODA UK & Ireland is a place to celebrate our differences, share our experiences and discover the friendships and connections that bring us together.
We can't wait to welcome you into our community!