Supporting Families Across California

The First Five Years Shape a Deaf and Hard of Hearing Child's Future.

At LEAD-K Family Services, we provide the resources, guidance, and community to help your child achieve age-appropriate language skills, thrive in their development, and be ready for kindergarten.

Our Goal: Support Families with Deaf and Hard of Hearing Children Ages 0-5.

To learn more about LEAD-K Family Services and our goals, please visit our About page.

Early Start Programs

Early Start Programs support infants and toddlers with disabilities, including Deaf and Hard of Hearing children. We've curated a list of school districts that specifically cater to their needs.

Find Your School District

Local Support and Events

Find services and resources near you, from early intervention to specialized education. Access community support, including events, workshops, and support groups.

Find Services and Events Near Me

Resources and Free Downloads

Access a wealth of resources, including educational materials, guides, and free downloads to help you support your Deaf or Hard of Hearing child’s development.

Explore Resources

Feeling worried or unsure about your Deaf or Hard of Hearing child’s future? You’re not alone.

From big dreams to bright futures, anything is possible with quality early learning. By actively engaging with your Deaf or Hard of Hearing child and supporting their language acquisition before 6 months of age, you can help ensure that they have the opportunity to reach their full potential.

Watch a short video above featuring a hearing mother sharing her experiences of raising a Deaf or Hard of Hearing child.

All Deaf and Hard of Hearing Children Can Acquire Language!

As parents, you are your child’s best advocate.

Use the milestones next to you as a guide to track your child’s language development.

Remember, you are not alone on this journey; resources are available to help you and your child succeed. LEAD-K Family Services is here to support you every step of the way.

As parents, you are your child’s best advocate.

Use the milestones below as a guide to track your child’s language development.

Remember, you are not alone on this journey; resources are available to help you and your child succeed. LEAD-K Family Services is here to support you every step of the way.

If your Deaf or Hard of Hearing child isn’t meeting language milestones in ASL or English, talk to their IFSP or IEP team right away. They can achieve age-level proficiency in at least one language. Adjust the program to support their language development.

0-3 Month

Hearing Screenings and Audiological Diagnosis Before 3 Months Of Age.

Initial referral to Early Start for hearing screening and audiological assessments if the infant does not pass hearing screening. Home visits by a Teacher of the Deaf to provide resources and monitor developmental milestones.

0-3 Month Milestone

4-6 Months

Active Engagement with Environment Before 6 Months of Age.

Regular home visits, enrollment in Early Intervention Services, and connection with a Family/Parent Mentor. Introduction of interactive play and communication techniques.

4-6 Months Milestone

7-12 Months

Clearer Communication Through Pointing and Simple Words Before 12 Months of Age.

Enrollment in Deaf Coach Services, ongoing assessment of language development, and introduction to playgroups.

7-12 Months Milestone

1-2 Years

Expansion of Vocabulary and Use of Simple Phrases Before 2 Years of Age.

Enhanced speech and language therapy, regular IFSP reviews, and continued support from Early Start services.

1-2 Years Milestone

2-3 Years

Rapid Language Development Between Ages 2 and 3.

Enhanced speech and language therapy, interactive storytelling, and family-guided activities. Regular progress assessments and ongoing early intervention services.

2-3 Years Milestone

3-4 Years

Rapid Growth in Language Skills and Simple Conversations Before 4 Years of Age.

Continued support through preschool programs and regular language assessments.

3-4 Years Milestone

4-5 Years

Sophisticated Communication and Detailed Sentences Before 5 Years of Age.

Advanced language development activities and readiness for Kindergarten evaluation.

4-5 Years Milestone

All Deaf and Hard of Hearing children can become bilingual in both American Sign Language (ASL) and English (reading and writing). ASL facilitates English and spoken language skills, empowering your child to thrive in a bilingual environment.

Meet the LEAD-K Family Services Team

Get to know the dedicated team members, Family Deaf Coaches, and parent mentors who are here to support you and your child. Our team is committed to providing the best resources and guidance to help your child thrive.

A woman, Jessica Cruz with light skin, wearing red-framed glasses, smiles softly. She has her hair pulled back, and is dressed in a light gray shirt. Behind her is a wooden backdrop. She has a subtle tattoo visible near the neckline of her shirt.

Black-and-white portrait of a woman, Sheri Farinha with shoulder-length hair, wearing glasses, dangling earrings, and a black top with patterned details.

A woman, Julie Rems-Smario, Ed.D with long, silver-streaked hair smiles warmly against a light blue background. She is wearing a patterned top, dangling earrings, and pink lipstick.

Early Start Referral Form

To start receiving services, ensure your child’s audiologist completes our Early Start Referral form here.

About LEAD-K and Letter to Parents and Families

Learn more about LEAD-K Family Services and read our letter to parents and families.

Comprehensive Support Across California

Find the resources and support available in your region, and connect with mentors and services to help your child thrive.