Love & Language

S1E9: Q&A with Beth Leipholtz

Welcome to this solo episode of the Love and Language Podcast. This week, Christy is out, leaving Beth to host a Q&A session, answering questions from listeners. In this engaging episode, Beth shares her personal experiences, including her journey of finding out her son, Cooper's, deafness and how it has affected their lives. She also provides insights on surgery, the functionality of cochlear implants, and reflects on the positive impacts of this journey. * Remember, as long as you're giving your child love and language, you're doing a great job!* Episode transcript available at www.loveandlanguagepodcast.com Follow us on social media- @christykeanecan & @beth_and_coop

S1E8: Brain plasticity and its impact on cochlear implant success

Welcome to the Love and Language Podcast, where Christy and Beth inspire and support hearing parents of d/Deaf children. In this solo episode, Christy delves into the concept of brain plasticity and its significant relationship with language development in children who receive cochlear implants. Main Discussion: Brain Plasticity: Christy explains the crucial role of brain plasticity in language development, especially for children receiving cochlear implants. She shares her personal experiences and insights as a parent navigating this journey with her daughter Charlotte. Understanding Brain Plasticity: Using the analogy of a ball of clay, Christy explains how young children's brains are adaptable and flexible, making it easier for them to learn new skills. This adaptability is vital for language development in children with cochlear implants. Research and Real-life Examples: Christy shares examples of documentaries and movies that portray the differences in language development and cochlear implant experiences between individuals who received implants early in life and those who received them later. And remember, as long as you're giving your child love and language, you're doing a GREAT job! Episode transcript available at www.loveandlanguagepodcast.com [http://www.loveandlanguagepodcast.com/] Follow us on social media - @christykeanecan & @beth_and_coop

S1E7: Audiology appointments, kindergarten IEPs, & equipment issues- oh my!

Welcome to the Love and Language Podcast, where Christy and Beth inspire and support hearing parents of d/Deaf children. In this episode, they share updates on their lives and dive into their recent experiences with their children's appointments. Join them as they discuss the challenges and joys of parenting and navigating the world of hearing loss. Main Discussion: 1. Personal Updates: Christy and Beth catch up on recent events, including Christy's husband's health issues and Beth's busy schedule. They emphasize the importance of balancing life's demands while giving their children love and language. 2. Technical Hiccups: The hosts share a humorous moment where they couldn't get their podcast audio to work. They reflect on the irony of discussing hearing loss while experiencing technical difficulties. They also express their aspirations to someday create an ASL podcast. 3. Children's Appointments: Beth discusses her son Coop's first appointment in eight months, highlighting the significance of regular check-ins and mapping for cochlear implants. They touch on the unique experience of bringing a child to these appointments and the importance of individualized care. 4. Charlotte's Kindergarten IEP Meeting: Christy shares her recent meeting regarding her daughter Charlotte's kindergarten Individualized Education Program (IEP). She also mentions the technical issues they encountered with her cochlear implants and the journey they have taken in incorporating them into Charlotte's education. Conclusion: Stay tuned for future episodes where Christy and Beth will address listener questions about cochlear implants and language development in a special Q&A episode. Remember, as long as you're giving your child love and language, you're doing a great job! Episode transcript available at www.loveandlanguagepodcast.com Follow us on social media- @christykeanecan & @beth_and_coop

S1E6: Getting to know your cochlear implant team

In this episode of Love and Language, Christy and Beth introduce you to the essential members of your cochlear implant team and explain their roles in supporting your child's journey to better hearing. Get to know the audiologist, surgeon, speech-language pathologist, and other professionals who work together to ensure a successful cochlear implant experience. Learn about their unique contributions, the importance of open communication, and how to build strong relationships with these specialists.This episode is a must-listen for parents of deaf children considering cochlear implants, as it provides essential guidance and support for navigating the process. Remember, as long as you're giving your child love and language, you're doing a great job! Episode transcript available at www.loveandlanguagepodcast.com [http://www.loveandlanguagepodcast.com/] Follow us on social media - @christykeanecan & @beth_and_coop

S1E5: What is a cochlear implant?

In this episode of Love and Language, Christy and Beth explain what cochlear implants are, how they work, and what to consider when deciding whether a cochlear implant is right for your child. Join these two hearing mothers as they share their expertise and experiences with cochlear implants, and offer valuable insights into the decision-making process. They discuss the benefits and risks of the surgery, the importance of early implantation, and the individual needs of each child. This episode is a must-listen for any parent of a deaf child considering cochlear implants. Don't forget to tune in next week for a special Q&A episode with Christy and Beth, where they answer your questions about cochlear implants and language development. Remember, as long as you're giving your child love and language, you're doing a great job! Episode transcript available at www.loveandlanguagepodcast.com Follow us on social media- @christykeanecan & @beth_and_coop