This 12-page tool answers questions about hearing loss in infants, focusing on communication and language strategies for families.

The tool includes the following sections:

• Our child has a hearing loss. What happens next? What is early intervention?
• I didn't know that an infant's hearing could be tested.
• Hearing in humans is very complex. There are many different types of hearing loss.
• Your child's hearing loss is unique.
• What are some things that I can do to communicate with my child right now?
• Suggestions for you while you are exploring intervention options.
  • Family support services
  • Infant and toddler services: Part C program
  • Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP)
  • Early intervention and Part C
• Your child and family might be offered several different approaches to communication and language.
• Educational programs use different approaches to communication and language.
• Communication, language, speech, and signing—What's the difference?
• The critical period for language development.
• Communication strategies.
• The five educational programs.
• Communication starts early.
• Families as decisionmakers.