Beyond Words

The First Steps to Sound: Cochlear Implant Candidacy and Hard Decisions

Cochlear implants offer the hope of hearing to many families. But the journey begins long before surgery. This episode explores the critical prerequisite testing that helps ensure success. Discover how these evaluations open the door to a world of sound for children with hearing loss and how our family navigated a few uncomfortable appointments and hard decisions to make.

One Sign at A Time: Learning American Sign Language

In this episode, we dive into our journey as hearing parents learning American Sign Language (ASL) for our deaf child. Join us as we explore the fears and pressures we faced in our quest to learn the language quickly enough to communicate with our little one. We discuss the emotional challenges of wanting to be the best advocates for our child while navigating the complexities of a new language. Throughout the episode, we share valuable resources that have been instrumental in our learning process, from online courses to community classes. Plus, we’ll recommend some of our favorite movies that feature ASL, showcasing the beauty of this rich language and its culture. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or simply curious about ASL, this episode is packed with insights and encouragement to help you on your journey. Tune in and discover how we’re bridging the gap, one sign at a time! +ASL resources mentioned in this episode: - MyGo http://www.youtube.com/@MyGoSignLanguageforKids-ASL - D-Pan https://dpan.tv - ASL Dictionary https://www.signasl.org - American Society for Deaf Children https://deafchildren.org

The Hearing Aid Debate: Do They Benefit Children With Profound Hearing Loss?

Join us for episode 2 where we dive into a common debate surrounding the use of hearing aids for children with profound hearing loss. We also discuss insurance woes, getting fitted for hearing aid molds and the importance of early intervention. Discover how timely support can make a significant difference in a family's life. Whether you're a parent, educator, or simply curious about the topic, this episode will equip you with an abundance of information and our perspective on navigating the use of hearing aids and how valuable early intervention has been to our family. Tune in to join the conversation!

Finding Out Our Child is Deaf

In this heartfelt introductory episode, we dive into the emotional landscape we face as hearing parents who receive the life-altering news that their baby is deaf at just 10 weeks old. Join us as we explore the initial shock, confusion, and myriad feelings that accompany this significant revelation. We’ll share our story and practical advice on how to navigate these challenging emotions and what steps to take next. Additionally, get a sneak peek into the topics we’ll cover this season, including early intervention, communication methods, and the invaluable support networks available for families. Tune in for a compassionate and enlightening conversation that aims to empower and uplift those on this unique journey