Home-based services bring early intervention into a family's home and everyday routines, where Deaf and hard of hearing babies and toddlers learn best. Use this tip sheet to understand them in plain terms. It explains why home-based services help, since communication develops all day, families are a child's first teachers, and learning continues between visits. It describes what strong services look like: family-centered, embedded in daily routines, and connected to Deaf mentors and community. It also describes how professionals can support families by building on family priorities, coaching caregivers, and sharing resources and connections.
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A checklist families use to set up a home that supports their Deaf or hard of hearing child's communication: lighting, sightlines, consistent signs, alerts, and routines.
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