“We believe that it is the right of every child to be given the opportunity to learn to talk.”

During your child's pre-school years you will hear and learn about different ways or methods of teaching deaf children. Here at The Elizabeth Foundation we are committed to the "Multi Sensory Oral Approach". This, put simply, is encouraging the development of speech, language and listening skills by using all of the child's senses in a natural, fun, child centred environment.

All children are individuals and there is no ‘one size fits all’ approach. The pre-school years are a time for parents to explore the options and understand the different teaching methods; but while you are learning and making decisions about Speaking or Signing, your child needs to learn to wear and learn to use his hearing aids effectively, start to learn that lip-reading and visual clues are important to him, and to be aware that he has a voice to use that people respond positively to.

Our methods also include some natural gesture and appropriate facial expressions. We do not, however, use sign language.The skills that your child will acquire while he is with us will be necessary pre-requisites for good "Total Communication" if you should choose to go down that path with your child. We strongly believe that parents are the main educators of their deaf child; and to help you fulfill this challenging role we are here to offer you help, guidance, advice and encouragement throughout their vital pre-school years.