Improving Outcomes for Families: A Systems Approach to Parent-to-Parent Support for Families of Children Who Are Deaf & Hard of Hearing WP3

Wednesday, May 7, 1:00 pm–4:00 pm

Family-Centered Early Intervention (FCEI) is most effective when it recognizes that children exist within the context of their families and everyday lives. Dr. Sheila Moodie, a researcher and audiologist at Western Ontario, argues that FCEI should not be viewed in isolation but as an integrated system that includes family-to-family (P2P) support as a core component. This presentation will explore the importance of shifting our perspective from viewing P2P support as an added service to seeing it as an essential part of the broader system of early hearing detection, diagnosis, and intervention. When family-to-family support is embedded within the system, it enhances family engagement, fosters positive human functioning, and ultimately leads to more valued outcomes for children who are deaf or hard of hearing. By building, supporting, and sustaining this system, we can ensure that services are truly family-centered and effective in achieving the best possible outcomes for both children and their families.

Presented by

Laura Gramer
ASTra Advocate/Board president
WA State Hands & Voices

Laura is the parent of 2 sons that are Deaf. She is the current board president for Washington State Hands & Voices and an ASTra advocate

Christine Griffin
Program Coordinator
Washington State Hands & Voices

Christine is the parent of two young adults who are Deaf/Hard of Hearing Plus. Christine has worked in the realm of family-to-family support since 2006 and is currently the Program Coordinator of the Guide By Your Side (GBYS) and brand new Advocacy Support & Training (ASTra) programs with Washington State Hands & Voices. She's also the Parent Co-Chair of the Early Hearing Detection, Diagnosis and Intervention (EHDDI) Advisory group, and Regional coordinator of western Hands & Voices chapters. Christine earned a MEd degree in Adult Education in 2017 with a focus on parents as adult learners.

Heather Quackenbush
Parent Guide
Washington State Hands & Voices

Heather and her husband are the parents of three Deaf children. She currently works as a Parent Guide with Washington State Hands & Voices. Trained as an educator, she loves all opportunities to learn and to mentor others. Heather enjoys volunteering in the community, reading, baking and exploring their area with her family.

Age Group Addressed:
All age groups

Audience:
All

Core Competency Area:
Families and Community Partnerships

Skill Level:
Fundamental

Presentation Outcomes:
This presentation aims to foster productive outcomes for children and their families, particularly those from diverse backgrounds, by focusing on the critical role of Parent-to-Parent (P2P) support within the framework of Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (EHDI) programs. Through four key objectives, this session will provide practical insights and evidence-based strategies to strengthen support systems, empowering families from all walks of life. The focus on diversity—encompassing ability, cultural, linguistic, religious, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic status—ensures that the approaches discussed are inclusive and adaptable to the needs of all families.

Learning Objectives:

Evidence (research) base for parent to parent support including the role of parent-to-parent support in building parental confidence and advocacy skills within Early Hearing Detection and Intervention programs.
Understand the programs offered by H&V for PtP support (GBYS, ASTra, Fostering Joy, FL3)
Understand the experiential knowledge and skills required for GBYS Guides, including sensitivity to families emotional responses and understanding of educational options
Apply strategies connecting families of children who are deaf or hard of hearing with parent-to-parent support.

Improving Outcomes for Families: A Systems Approach to Parent-to-Parent Support for Families of Children Who Are Deaf & Hard of Hearing WP3

Presented by

IECC Registration Office

IECC Registration