CDHH supports a wide range of communication approaches to
meet individual needs and goals. Including:
Speechreading (Lipreading)
Speechreading is a technique for recognizing spoken words
by watching the speaker's lips, face and gestures. It is
a skill that is learned through instruction and practice,
and works best for those with some residual hearing. Using
speechreading techniques with effective communication strategies
can greatly improve an individual's ability to interact with
others and help reduce some of the feelings of isolation often
felt by those with hearing loss. CDHH offers small
group speechreading classes
throughout the year.
American Sign Language
American Sign Language is a fully recognized, distinct
language that uses signs made with the hands and other movements,
including facial expressions and postures of the body. American
Sign Language has its own unique grammatical structure and
syntax, and is used by deaf individuals throughout the US
and Canada. Different sign languages are used in other parts
of the world. CDHH offers a variety of sign
language classes to the community throughout
the year.
Speech Therapy
Auditory-Verbal Therapy
Auditory-Verbal therapy is a comprehensive approach focused
on teaching parents of children who are deaf and hard of hearing
how to develop their child’s ability to learn through
listening. The participation and efforts of the family are
critical to this approach. During therapy sessions,
the parent, child and therapist engage in Play activities
that teach the child to use his or her hearing aids or cochlear
implant to learn verbal communication. Through this
process, hearing and listening become integrated into the
child's personality.
Auditory Oral Therapy
Families who choose an auditory oral communication option
for their child may include their child in a Toddler Communication
Group and also receive individual speech therapy. This
approach encourages children to develop their auditory and
oral communication skills and to use those skills to communicate
their needs and wants. Hearing peers are included as
role models in the Toddler Communication Group, and music
and rhythmic activities are used to enhance auditory and speech
development.
Total Communication
In this approach, conceptually accurate sign language and
speech are used simultaneously. Natural facial expression,
body language and/or gestures are also used for communication.
Children learning this approach in their Toddler Communication
Group are encouraged to use both sign language and speech/vocalization.
Aural Rehabilitation
Adults with hearing loss may choose one-on-one speech therapy.
Individual goals are established and the therapy program is
specifically designed to reach those goals. |
