The time and effort to find the services that emphasize listening and spoken language will be worth it.
While every state offers early intervention services for children diagnosed as deaf or hard of hearing, finding what's right for your family may be a challenge. Programs in different states, counties, cities, and communities can look different. You'll need to find what's available for you and it may take talking with several different people. Just remember to keep going. Your efforts will help your child learn to listen and talk.
How to Find Services Near You
Here are some ways you can find LSL services where you live:
Ask for Help
Your child's pediatrician or your local pediatric audiologist is a great resource. You can also learn from other parents who live in your area and are familiar with the LSL journey through the Hearing First Community.
Learn About the Family Support Community
Find Your State's Program
Most states have a birth-to-three program, also called a "Part C" program. The early hearing detection and intervention (EHDI) programs are a great place to start. Search online for "LSL early intervention services" in your state to find the website for your area. From there, you can call or email to ask about enrolling your child in early intervention with a focus on listening and spoken language.
Keep At It
You can always look for other organizations that can help your family teach your child to listen and talk. This could be a special school, a speech and hearing clinic, or a hospital program. And if you choose an online option, called tele-intervention, the organization doesn't need to be in your area.
Be Persistent
If your goal is for your child to listen and talk, you'll need to be persistent in your efforts. Keep going until you can find what works best for your family. It'll be worth it to help your child’s brain grow.