Family-Centered and School-Based Enhancement of Listening and Spoken Language

Children who are deaf/hard of hearing, including those from varied cultural and linguistic backgrounds, can use hearing technology to develop listening and spoken language successfully if given appropriate support. This is best accomplished by interprofessional teams providing caregivers with family-centered support from early intervention through the school-aged years. This approach is best practice because development of listening, spoken language, literacy, and social skills is most effective when caregivers are the primary communication partners and intervention agents, supported by qualified professionals. Special considerations are needed for families who have low access to services.