Getting Started with Home Visits: Recommendations for Serving Families of Children who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing

The successful implementation of newborn hearing screening programs across the United States has facilitated timely diagnosis of hearing loss and referral to early intervention (EI) services for families of children who are deaf or hard of hearing (DHH), thus increasing the potential for improved language development outcomes. As new parents engage in EI services that involve professionals entering their home, the effectiveness of the early interventionists’ engagement, knowledge, coaching skills, and ability to provide emotional support can substantially influence families’ experiences. This article provides graduate students and new early interventionists an overview of key concepts related to home-based EI services, including (a) establishing the parent-professional partnership, (b) the parent coaching model, (c) auditory development priorities, and (d) goal-oriented services. Tables containing websites, assessments, and other materials and intervention resources are provided to support content depth and service delivery competence in each concept area. The final section outlines the flow of a typical home visit. An example of a completed Family Session Planning Guide and a hypothetical example of dialogue between the parents and the EI provider as they establish the child and family goals and identify strategies for meeting those goals. Also included is a Family Session Planning Guide template