Resources
Education
Academic opportunities within Rhode Island
Families have many educational pathways available in Rhode Island. These options support a wide range of communication approaches, learning styles, and family goals. Exploring choices early can help families make informed decisions that fit their child’s needs.
RI Auditory Oral Program
The RI Auditory Oral Program supports children who are learning to listen and develop spoken language. Families who choose this path often work closely with therapists and educators to support speech, listening, and communication development in everyday life.
Communication Considerations for Preschool
Article from the National Hands & Voices website, "
Communication Considerations A to Z™ PreSchool Programs
Choosing a preschool can feel like a big step. This resource helps families think through communication access, language exposure, and inclusion in early learning settings. It offers helpful questions to ask when visiting or evaluating preschool programs.
Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDOE) – Special Education
Early Intervention
Early Intervention (EI) supports babies and toddlers with hearing differences and their families during the earliest years of development. EI services are designed to help your child grow and learn while supporting you as a parent in your home and everyday routines.
If your child was recently identified as Deaf or Hard of Hearing, EI is often one of the first systems you’ll encounter. It’s okay if it feels like a lot. You don’t have to navigate it alone.
Rhode Island Early Intervention Agencies
Rhode Island has several EI agencies serving families across the state.
Click here for a list of Early intervention provider in the state of RI
Tip for parents: When choosing an EI agency, it can help to ask about their experience working with Deaf and Hard of Hearing children and how they support communication access.
Rhode Island Early Hearing Detection & Intervention (EHDI)
Supports early identification of hearing loss and connection to services for infants and young children in Rhode Island.
Parent Support Network of Rhode Island (PSNRI)
Provides parent support, training, and resources for families raising children with disabilities in Rhode Island.
Learning ASL
Many families choose to learn ASL to support communication, connection, and language access — whether alongside spoken language or on its own.
Rhode Island School for the Deaf (RISD)
Offers ASL classes and community learning opportunities connected to the Rhode Island School for the Deaf.
ASL at Home is a family-centered curriculum designed specifically for families with young Deaf and Hard of Hearing children. Materials are available in English and Spanish and can be used at home as part of everyday routines.
Deaf+
Deaf+ refers to Deaf and Hard of Hearing children who may also have additional disabilities or support needs. The resources in this section are intended to support families who are navigating more than one system of care.
Parent Support Network of Rhode Island (PSNRI)
Provides parent support, education, and resources for families raising children with disabilities in Rhode Island.
RIDOH – Children with Special Health Care Needs
Connects families to services and resources for children with special health care needs in Rhode Island.
The ARC of Rhode Island
Advocates for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families across Rhode Island.
Audiology & ENTs
Audiologists and ENT providers play an important role in monitoring hearing, supporting hearing technology, and helping families understand their child’s hearing profile.
This interdisciplinary program provides comprehensive evaluations and consultative services for Deaf and Hard of Hearing children through Boston Children’s Hospital.
Speech Language Pathologists
Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) support children in developing communication skills, including speech, language, and listening. Families may work with an SLP in a clinic, school, or private setting depending on their child’s needs and goals.
Donna A Rizzo, MS CCC
Donna Rizzo is an experienced speech-language pathologist who has worked with Deaf and Hard of Hearing children for over 30 years. She supports families using hearing technology (hearing aids, cochlear implants, BAHA) and helps guide families through early listening strategies, school transitions, and IEP planning. Contact: ihearit.rizzo@gmail.com
RI Auditory Oral Program
Provides speech and language therapy services focused on listening and spoken language development for children who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing.
Stephanie Rich, MS CCC/SLP
Stephanie Rich is a Rhode Island-licensed and ASHA-certified speech-language pathologist who specializes in supporting children’s communication development.
Local Deaf Community
Connecting with other families and the Deaf community can be incredibly helpful. Especially when you’re navigating new experiences or just need someone who “gets it.”
RI Hands and Voices private Facebook group
Our private Facebook group is a supportive space for parents and caregivers to:
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Ask questions
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Share local experiences
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Learn about events and resources
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Connect with other families walking a similar path
Rhode Island Association of the Deaf (RIAD)
Supports and connects the Deaf community in Rhode Island through advocacy, events, and community engagement.
RISD – Community Events
Hosts community events, activities, and opportunities that bring together Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and hearing families.
American School for the Deaf (ASD) – Community Programs (CT)
Offers community events, programs, and Deaf cultural opportunities in Connecticut.