The important first step is to connect with people who can help you on this journey. There are professionals ready to assist and other parents willing to listen.
*Please contact the organization before applying as qualifications may have changed. If you have additions or changes, please contact Sara Peterson.
The critical language learning years are from birth to age six. This is when the brain is programmed to learn language. Language is learned naturally in these early years through communication. It is important while you are learning more about your child's hearing level to interact with your baby as naturally as possible. Use your normal body language and gestures. Stimulate your child's senses. Talk, sing and read to them. Play and loving contact are very important! Emphasize facial expressions, then respond to your baby's reactions. These are natural ways to strengthen the bond between you and your baby and begin to build two-way communication.
Any new experience we encounter in life is aided by guidance and support from people who already have knowledge and experience in that area. There are professionals ready to help you navigate this unknown territory.
You may have a team of professionals with the Early Development Network assigned to you. These professionals can help explain normal language development and will work with you using the communication approach(es) you want to start with.
Visit the NE-EHDI Family Support page to learn about the supports available in Nebraska.
Use these worksheets to guide in your discussions:
There are websites that will describe additional resources for you:
Especially when you are first starting on this learning journey, it can be difficult to remember everything! Organization will be your best friend. You may find these forms useful or they may spur you on to find your own best way to keep track of important information and appointment date.