Playing with my children has never depended on hearing every sound. Whether we're building, drawing or being silly together, it's the interaction and shared experience that matter to me.

Growing up in a hearing family, I relied on speaking and lip-reading. Now, as a Deaf mum, shared effort in communication matters to me, not only for myself but for my children too.

Some of my favourite moments with my children have happened in complete silence. Emotional closeness, for me, grows through attention, comfort, trust and the everyday moments we share.