What to Do in the First 30 Days

Introduction

Finding out that your child has a hearing loss can be overwhelming. For many parents, this discovery happens soon after birth, often in the hospital. With so much new information, referrals, and advice, it’s easy to feel uncertain about the next steps. Use this guide to navigate the first 30 days after learning about your child’s hearing loss.

Step 1: Take a Breath

It’s natural to feel a mix of emotions—shock, worry, and even grief. Remember, it’s okay to take time to process. You don’t have to figure everything out immediately.

Happy picture of two women holding a newborn baby.

Step 2: Contact Early Intervention Services

Early intervention services are designed to support your child’s development from the very beginning. In the U.S., every state has an Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (EHDI) program. These programs connect families with resources, support, and professionals who specialize in working with Deaf and hard-of-hearing children.

Action Step: Reach out to your state’s EHDI coordinator for guidance. They can help set up early diagnostic evaluations and point you toward local resources.

We have put together a national map (50 states, Washington DC, Puerto Rico, and US Territories) that includes contact info.

Step 3: Follow Up on Hearing Screening Results or Diagnosis

If your child was identified during newborn hearing screening, it’s important to follow up with additional assessments to confirm the type and degree of hearing loss.

Testing Needed: Diagnostic audiology evaluations can determine whether the hearing loss is temporary or permanent. These tests also offer insights into next steps.

Tip: Ask for a pediatric audiologist experienced in working with Deaf and hard-of-hearing infants.

Step 4: Connect with Organizations for Deaf Families

There are many organizations dedicated to helping families like yours. These groups offer resources, parent connections, and educational materials.

Examples:

Action: Attend informational sessions or peer groups to hear from other families.

Step 5: Explore Communication Options

Deaf and hard-of-hearing children access the world through a variety of communication methods. Some families choose American Sign Language (ASL), while others use spoken language or a combination. Take time to learn about these options and what feels right for your family.

Resources:

  • Workshops and webinars on language access
  • ASL-friendly parent groups
  • Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) specializing in communication development

Step 6: Start Building Your Team of Professionals

Supporting your child’s development is a team effort. Professionals may include:

  • Educators for Deaf and hard-of-hearing children
  • Audiologists
  • Early intervention specialists
  • Speech-language pathologists

Closing Thoughts

The journey may feel daunting at first, but you are not alone. There is a community ready to support you. Take one step at a time, and don’t hesitate to seek out connections and resources. By building a strong foundation in these early days, you are giving your child the best start possible.

References and Resources