Hearing Services – Hearing Loss Early Intervention

Why Early Intervention Matter

Research shows that the sooner children with hearing loss receive early intervention, the better the outcomes in language, communication, and overall development. Our early intervention program is designed to:

• Support infants and toddlers with effective hearing loss solutions
• Provide families with strategies to build communication skills into everyday routines
• Maximize your child’s potential through individualized, family-centered services
• Help families access additional child hearing services and resources as needed

By identifying hearing concerns early and providing personalized support, our hearing loss program can give your child the best possible start.
 

How Our Early Intervention Program Works

• Home-Based or Virtual Visits: Services are typically provided in the home but can also take place in another setting of your choosing, including a virtual visit.
• Family-Centered Approach: Everyday routines, such as mealtime, play, and reading, become opportunities for your child to build communication and language skills.
• Evidence-Based Services: Our team uses proven methods for early intervention in hearing loss, ensuring that your child receives the highest level of care.

For more information about our early intervention hearing loss program, contact Bridgid Whitford at 216-231-8787.
 

Learn, Laugh & Grow Playgroup (Ages 0–5)

In addition to early intervention services, CHSC offers the Learn, Laugh & Grow playgroup for children ages 0–5 with hearing loss. This group provides:

• Fun, social experiences for young children with hearing differences
• Opportunities for parents to connect and share experiences
• Community resources and peer support

Learn More

Give Your Child the Best Start

If your child has been diagnosed with hearing loss, early intervention can make all the difference. CHSC’s expert team of audiologists is here to guide and support your family through our comprehensive early intervention hearing loss program.

Learn More About Early Intervention Services
 

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these services truly free of charge?

Thanks to funding from the Ohio Early Intervention Program, children experiencing hearing loss from birth to age three (3) can access early intervention services at no cost.
 

Why is early intervention important for children with hearing loss?

The brain develops most rapidly during a child’s early years. Without early intervention, children experiencing hearing loss may miss critical opportunities to learn spoken language. Early intervention can help keep your child’s communication pathways active, giving them the best chance to reach their full potential.
 

What kind of developmental gains can families expect?

Families participating in early intervention programs for hearing loss often see meaningful progress in their child’s communication, learning, and social skills. While every child develops at their own pace, research consistently shows that early intervention hearing loss services provide meaningful benefits.
 

How does CHSC coordinate with Ohio's Early Intervention System?

CHSC collaborates with Ohio Early Intervention and local county departments to provide services and a coaching model to families in the five counties we serve. This coordinated effort empowers families to make informed communication choices, such as American Sign Language (ASL) or oral language, to support their child's development. 
 

What happens during an Early Intervention visit?

The visit typically takes place in your child’s natural environment — at home, daycare, a relative’s home, or in some cases, online.

Our specialists will provide you with strategies to help your child with listening, speech, and language development. Each session is tailored to your child’s unique needs, and services may include coaching on child hearing services, communication techniques, or the use of hearing technology (like hearing aids or cochlear implants).
 

What happens after my child turns three?

Once your child approaches their third birthday, your family will begin a transition process to ensure support continues without disruption.

Your child may transition from early intervention hearing loss services to preschool-based support through your school district, with an Individualized Education Program (IEP) guiding their ongoing developmental and educational needs.
 

How does Early Intervention support the whole family?

At CHSC, our early intervention program is designed to provide your family with the tools, strategies, and confidence you need to help your child thrive.