Colorado Resource Guide

So you want to know about resources for the deaf and hard of hearing...

Then this Resource Guide is for you. Whether you're a parent who's just discovered your child has a hearing loss, or you're a teacher, a school administrator, an audiologist, or someone else related to the community of deaf and hard of hearing individuals, this booklet is for you.

Please use it to:

• Connect families of children who are deaf or hard of hearing to each other for support.
• Explore choices for communication methods that are presented in an unbiased way.
• Find out about services and supports available to families and professionals.
• Get information on resources for financial assistance.
• Learn about the rights of individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing and how to advocate for them.
• Discover community support systems, resources and programs.

As you look over this guide, you may come up with questions and ideas you haven't considered before as you play your role in enhancing the quality of life for a child with deafness or hearing loss. Remember--the options and decisions facing any family are theirs alone to make with information and support from professionals. There is no one "right" way when it comes to finding the program that will empower a child to success. His or her needs, as well as the needs of the family, will change with time and it's very important to see this all as a work in progress. Don't be afraid to remain open to new ideas, and even change your approach if necessary. And remember, research clearly shows that a communication choice should not be solely based on the degree of hearing loss.

For families of babies newly identified with deafness or hearing loss, an important first step is to get connected to other families like yours for information and support. We encourage you to join Colorado Families for Hands & Voices, a nonprofit, non-biased support system for families and professionals. You're not alone, and we can help.