EARLY HEARING DETECTION AND INTERVENTION VIRTUAL CONFERENCE
MARCH 2-5, 2021
(Virtually the same conference, without elevators, airplane tickets, or hotel room keys)
Shine a Light: Fostering Development across Domains
Early identification of hearing status, early exposure to accessible language, early amplification (where relevant), and implementation of early intervention have benefitted countless children who are deaf or hard of hearing. Building on the shoulders of the giants in our field, research has been undertaken and policies have been introduced that truly promote improved outcomes. With the appropriate early supports, young children with reduced hearing and their families are, in many ways, thriving. This presentation will celebrate some of the successes that we, together, have achieved. It will also serve as a reminder that, despite the enormous progress that has been made, areas of vulnerability remain for many deaf and hard-of-hearing children. By shedding some light on the various domains of development, this presentation will aim to broaden the scope of how we think about and support deaf and hard-of-hearing children. Much of the work in the field has focused intently on language development (whether signed or spoken); yet when we illuminate the needs of the whole child, we bring to light other areas of development that also critically important. Families often possess a flicker of hope regarding the possibilities for their child. Yet, further involving caregivers in the journey to learn more about their child’s development, can fan their flames of passion to help realize the child’s optimal potential.
- Describe a minimum of four developmental domains of functioning
- Identify at least two areas of potential vulnerability with respect to developmental outcomes in deaf or hard-of-hearing children, according to the literature.
- List two or more strategies for “shining the light” to help families recognize the importance of attending to the whole child
Presenter: Amy Szarkowski
Amy Szarkowski, PhD, is the Director of The Institute and The Clinic at the Children's Center for Communication/ Beverly School for the Deaf (CCCBSD), and faculty for LEND (Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and related Disabilities), at Boston Children's Hospital. Dr. Szarkowski holds an academic appointment as Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. She is also an adjunct instructor for the Infants, Toddlers and Families (ITF) Interdisciplinary program at Gallaudet University.
ASHA DISCLOSURE:
Financial -
No relevant financial relationship exist.
Nonfinancial -
• Has a Professional (Research Committee Co-Chair)
relationship for Volunteer membership on advisory committee or review panels.
• Has a Professional (Advisory Board)
relationship for Volunteer membership on advisory committee or review panels.