SPECIAL EDUCATION

Early Hearing Detection and Identification Project in South Central Minnesota

Why is newborn hearing screening so important?
When hearing loss is detected and intervention begins early, deaf or hard of hearing children have the opportunity to achieve age appropriate language and cognitive skills by the time they begin school. Research has shown that it is critical to begin early intervention services for deaf or hard of hearing infants and their families before six months of age.

The goal of Minnesota’s Newborn Hearing Screening Project is that all deaf and hard of hearing newborns are:
1 – Screened for hearing loss by 1 MONTH OF AGE
3 – Evaluated by an audiologist by 3 MONTHS OF AGE
6 – Provided educational services by 6 MONTHS OF AGE

What is early intervention?
Educational services are also called early intervention services and are provided to children from birth to 3 years old through the public schools.

Intervention
Professionals will give families information about the full range of intervention options so they can make the best choices for their child. All infants with hearing loss should receive early educational services before six months of age. Services that are available at no cost include: information, support, and referral services to families of children who are deaf or hard of hearing or have other developmental delays.

Newborn Hearing Screening for Early Identification of Hearing Loss:
Services for infants and toddlers living in South Central Minnesota 507-389-1425

Other Resources:
Blue Earth County and North Mankato: 507-387-1818
Nicollet and Le Sueur Counties: 507-934-5420
Brown, Sibley, Watonwan Counties: 800-605-4431
Waseca County: 507-835-2246
Martin County: 507-238-4133
Faribault County: 507-238-4133