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Dear Parents,

You and your family are starting on what might be unexpected, but an exciting journey, with your child who is Deaf or Hard of Hearing. With our resources, mentoring and coaching we will support you so that your child has the earliest possible access to language development and communication.
We understand that you may be experiencing many different emotions We believe that families who are involved and knowledgable are the key to creating a successful future for ALL children. We can assure you that your child will grow up to become a productive, independent member of society.
You are not alone. We are here to help you!
Lead-K Family Services is here for you and your family.

COVID-19 Update: Home visits and in person services may be impacted by COVID-19. Your local Early Start coordinator should discuss safe options such as video meetings. Call a doctor if you develop fever, cough, or difficulty breathing. For more information go to covid19.ca.gov

Guiding The Young Generation To Success with LEAD-K

LEAD-K Family Services is the recipient of the 4 year federal grant starting in 2020 by Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA-20-047). We now function as the current Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (EHDI) in California. Our centralized services focus on connecting families with their local school district, Early Start home visit teachers, parent mentors, Deaf coaches and other supports as outlined in an Individualized Family Support Plan. We also work with the Department of Education, Department of Developmental Services, and the Department of Social Services to ensure your family is receiving all needed services.
SHERI FARINHA
CEO of NorCal Services for Deaf & Hard of Hearing
Investigator, HRSA

sfarinha@norcalcenter.org

(916) 349-7500
CHERYL BELLA
LEAD-K Family Program Manager

cheryl@leadkfamilyservices.org

(916) 367-0511 VP

"I don't know what to do when everyone thinks they know what is best for our child?”

CA EHDI: LEAD-K Family Services Program has the following goals:

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Hearing Screenings of all infants before 1 month of age
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enrollment in deaf coach services as offered through early intervention by 9 months of age
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Audiological Diagnosis before 3 months of age if the infant does not pass hearing screening
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Enrollment in early intervention services by 6 months of age
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Connected with Family/Parent Mentor by 6 months of age
Strengthening Families

We Empower Parents of Deaf/HH Children


We provide comprehensive information and awareness through mentoring, networking, and resources. We honor families’ relationships with their child and promote language and communication opportunities. Families with Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing (HH) children are connected to each other and to Deaf/HH adults so that families can envision positive outcomes for their child.

The Coping Process

ACCEPTANCE TO CELEBRATION

The birth of a baby is a wonderful reason for celebration. Ninety-five percent of babies who have been identified as Deaf or Hard of Hearing are born to hearing parents. Some parents may be unsure of what to do and what to expect for the future.

What do parents and Joint Committee say about us

Testimonials

Let's explore what Parents and Joint Committee have to say about us.
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Parent

“Family Deaf Coaches are extremely valuable and beneficial in my opinion because these services helped our child to interact with our family and others in a relaxed setting. Being able to connect with my daughter and show her how to express her feelings and needs are key benefits.”
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Joint Committee

Both adults and children in the deaf and hard-of-hearing community can enrich the family's experience by serving as mentors and role models. Such mentors have experience in negotiating their way in a hearing world, raising infants or children who are deaf or hard of hearing, and providing families with a full range of information about communication options, assistive technology, and resources that are available in the community.”
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Mentor

Families who have many contacts with Deaf adults exhibit a strong sense of competence with regard to raising their D/HH child
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Snodden, 2008

Studies show that the learning of signed language has a positive effect on young deaf children's spoken language skills.

Our Parent Mentors

We have an excellent teacher to child ratio at our Kindergarten to ensure that each child receives the attention he or she needs.

Griselle Ramirez

Parent Mentor

Irma Sanchez

Parent Mentor

Estela Camacho

Parent Mentor

Family Deaf Coaching

Deaf Coaches support families on their journey by sharing resources and life experiences.
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Language Development

All Deaf/HH children can acquire language! There is an important difference between speech and language. You CAN have language without having speech
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Early Start Education

Early Start is California’s name for programs that provide services to infants and toddlers (birth to three) with disabilities, and their families. LEAD-K Family Services will refer you and your baby to your local Early Start program serving families with Deaf and Hard of Hearing children. Then, the Early Start staff will contact your family and make an appointment to meet with your family.
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Information and Resources

We understand that you may be overwhelmed with information and new words that doctors, audiologists and teachers may be using. Here is a helpful glossary of many common terms you may encounter as a family member of a Deaf/Hard of Hearing child.
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Parent Resources

Parent Resource Guide

Position Statement on Access to Language for Students who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing

The Benefits of Bilingualism

Parents and Young Deaf Children Reading Together

Your child has a bright future
The Goals of California’s Newborn Hearing Screening are to provide Early Support & Language


In many ways your Deaf/HH child is like any other child. Your child will meet many milestones such as reaching for you and taking first steps. Your child will also be more visually acute. Your child will be more attuned to subtle movement. Your child’s gaze is attentive to details and your child’s brain is ready to absorb language. Communicate visually while you learn whether your child has the ability to access language auditorily. Your child can be multi-lingual by using American Sign Language (ASL) as their foundation language.

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Start Early Intervention

Interested in getting services for your child for your child? Contact us to assist you and your child's needs!
Request a Referral