Communication Options

• Sign Language (ASL)

  • Primary language for many deaf North Americans

  • Combines hand movements, facial expressions, and body posture

  • No universal sign language; each region has its own version

  • Learn more: NIDCD ASL page

• Auditory-Verbal Therapy (AVT)

  • Helps children use residual hearing and devices to develop speech

  • Promotes independence and inclusion in traditional schools

  • Explore resources: Hearing Loss Association of America (California)

  • Additional tool: LACE (Listening and Communication Enhancement) for hearing improvement
     

Therapy & Local Resources

• Speech and Language Pathologists

  • Treat speech, language, and social communication challenges

  • Specialists include:

    • Ruth Horowitz – AVT expert for children

    • Communications Matters – CCS paneled speech pathologists

    • Dickinson C Ross Preschool – Communication-rich curriculum
       

Understanding Speech Delay

• Pediatric Speech Delay

  • Speech skills significantly below age expectations

  • May signal developmental disorders (e.g., autism, hearing loss)

  • Impacts personal, academic, and social development

  • Learn more: ASHA on speech delay
     

Hearing Assessments

• Ling Six Sound Test

  • Simple tool using [m], [ah], [oo], [ee], [sh], [s]

  • Covers full range of speech frequencies

  • Helps detect hearing loss in children

  • Can be done with or without hearing aids

  • Ask the child to repeat or respond to sounds

Autism & Communication

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

  • Impacts social interaction, communication, and behavior

  • Varies widely in severity

  • Asperger Syndrome is a high-functioning ASD

    • Typically no speech delay but may include one-sided conversations

  • Learn more: Autism Speaks