Spanish Speech-Language Pathology for Children Who Are Deaf and Hard of Hearing

As a Spanish speaking parent of a child who is deaf or hard of hearing, you may worry whether your child will ever be able to communicate effectively in your home language.

After all, the ability to hear is a crucial aspect of natural language development – both speaking and listening.

Research suggests that children who are deaf and hard of hearing learn better when they are able to communicate in their home language which is why we introduced our Spanish Speech-Language Pathology services in 2015.

This service, for Spanish speaking families, gives your child exposure to Spanish and English. As an added benefit, research suggests that children who are deaf and hard of hearing who receive services in both languages have better outcomes.

The service also:

• Facilitates parent involvement and follow through at home.
• Enables parents to become more actively involved in their child’s academic progress.
• Allows your child to speak to more people – thus expanding his or her social network.
• Opens up more educational and professional opportunities throughout your child’s life.

Here is what CCHAT parents have to say about our Spanish Speech-Language Pathology services:

• "Having a Spanish speaking staff person at school makes me feel more comfortable. I can communicate with her in my own language about questions I have and ways I can help my children at home. I’m very grateful for having her as part of my son’s language journey. I’m feeling a part of this community that is CCHAT.” -Paola Mondragon | Dunnigan, CA
• “We are feeling very grateful for your support to our school, CCHAT. In my family, our primary language is Spanish and having access to a bilingual person at school helps us understand better what is happening with our daughter every day. Thank you for your generosity.” -Carmen Lara | Davis, CA

Reading parent testimonials like these can be very encouraging, but it’s another thing to witness this in action.

Mikey: Spanish-Language Pathology Example Student

From an early age, Mikey has had to wear cochlear implants for both of his ears. This assistive technology is most common among those for whom traditional hearing aids are insufficient. Instead of simply amplifying sound, cochlear implants work by bypassing the ear’s infrastructure and sending audio information directly to the brain for sound processing.

Despite these challenges, however, Mikey has no difficulty communicating as he alternates seamlessly between Spanish and English. As the video below demonstrates, he’s able to navigate two different worlds – switching back and forth effortlessly.

In effect, Mikey speaks, hears, reads and even thinks bilingually.

This is a wonderful gift that will continue to serve Mikey academically, professionally and socially for the rest of his life.

If you’re a Spanish-speaking parent whose child is deaf or hard of hearing, we’re here to help. Below are the two best ways to learn more about our Spanish services.

1. Visit CCHAT In-Person

At CCHAT, we host guided tours all year long and invite you to come in and check out our school, curriculum and real-life success stories.

To participate in one of our upcoming tours, schedule a free appointment with us today.

2. Have Your Child’s Hearing Tested

Our on-site audiologists can also provide diagnostic evaluations to help determine the type and scope of your child’s hearing loss. These comprehensive screenings allow us to place him or her in the most appropriate learning environment for them.