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Families First: Early Intervention Program
What is it? A program designed to work directly in the homes of deaf/hard of hearing children ages birth-five. This program is provided at no charge to any family in the 1st Steps Program or an Early Childhood Special Education Program in Missouri. The families receive information about deafness, how the ear works, communication methodologies, and language experiences. The purpose of the home program is to assist families in understanding their child's hearing loss and to strengthen the families awareness of deafness.
Who and What are Early Intervention Specialists? Early Intervention Specialists are trained professionals who work part time for Families First. They have degrees in one of the following areas:
They are trained in the SKI*HI Model, which is implemented as the curriculum used in the program. Some are parents of deaf and hard of hearing children and have been through the program prior to becoming a Early Intervention Specialist.
What does an Early Intervention Specialist do? A Early Intervention Specialist is trained in the SKI*HI Model. They work in the home with the parents of deaf and hard of hearing children for one hour, one time a week. They inform the parents of issues dealing with hearing aids, auditory training, communication methodologies, and language development.
What Communication methodology is used? The mode of communication is determined by the parents. Various methodologies are presented to the parents and they are encouraged to visit with deaf adults and their local school districts to learn what methodology is being used in their community. The program provides some sign language books that go along with the SKI*HI model. In most cases, parents are responsible for seeking out classes to their choosing, in sign language. |
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Missouri School for the
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