Center-based services are early intervention playgroups where Deaf and hard of hearing infants, toddlers, and their families learn together. Use this research list to ground that work in evidence. It gathers studies showing that family-centered early intervention, with timely information, coaching, and ASL and bilingual strategies, helps families support their child's language and development, and that playgroups add value through peer connection, shared learning, and partnerships with professionals and Deaf adults. Use it for program planning, staff learning, or funding conversations.
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A checklist providers use to choose and share books that build early language, visual access, and warm back-and-forth interaction during home and center visits with Deaf and hard of hearing children.
A checklist administrators use to set up center-based playgroups that are visually accessible, bilingual, and family-centered, covering compliance, staffing, room design, and family engagement.
A checklist providers use to stock an early intervention playgroup with books, toys, visual supports, and sensory materials that turn everyday play into language-building for Deaf and hard of hearing children.