Strong early intervention programs share a clear vision: every Deaf or hard of hearing child and family receives language-rich, family-centered services. Family-centered means the whole family, not just the child, is your partner in setting goals. Use this checklist to reflect on your own part in that vision. It asks how you show the program's philosophy in everyday interactions, support shared decision-making with families, model ASL and English Bilingual strategies, document progress accurately, and advocate for communication access. Use it to reflect on your practice, notice barriers, and strengthen the services families receive.
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A checklist administrators use to lead birth-to-three programs with a clear Bilingual, Deaf-affirming vision, covering direction, language access, policies, data, and shared decision-making.
A tip sheet leaders use to build early intervention programs with a clear vision, strong family partnerships, and services that support language access.
A research list leaders can use to ground birth-to-three program decisions in evidence, gathering studies on governance, a Deaf-affirming vision, family advisory roles, and data-informed staffing.