While BEGINNINGS continues working toward full funding, we’re currently able to offer the following services to families of children who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing:

✨ Virtual Home Visits for Ages 0–3: Our Part-Time Contract Parent Educator now offers one-hour virtual home visits to support families of newly identified children with hearing loss.

✨ One-on-One Support: Connect with a BEGINNINGS staff member via phone or virtual meeting for guidance if your child is newly identified with hearing loss.

✨ Email Assistance: Reach out with your unique family questions at raleigh@ncbegin.org.

✨ Educational Resources: Explore our website for information on hearing loss, IDEA, and other helpful content.

Winter can be tough on little ears and hearing devices, especially for children who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing. Cold weather, seasonal illnesses, and moisture from snow or rain can all impact ear health and device performance. Taking simple, proactive steps, like practicing good hygiene, watching for signs of ear infections, and keeping hearing devices dry, can help your child stay comfortable and supported throughout the winter months.

Keeping ears warm and creating a hearing-friendly home environment also makes a big difference during winter. Well-fitting hats or earmuffs, regular device checkups, and quieter indoor spaces can support both comfort and communication. Winter is also a great time to slow down, read together, and enjoy activities that strengthen connection and language, helping your child thrive all season long. 

In honor of Read Your World Day (RYWD), formerly Multicultural Children’s Book Day, celebrated on January 29, 2026, we’re highlighting books that reflect diverse experiences and ensure every child sees themselves in the stories they read. RYWD promotes inclusive children’s literature through classroom and at-home reading, online events, author spotlights, book giveaways, and meaningful offline activities.

The Adventures of Billie BAHA and Her Super HEARo Friends! by Jessica Jordan-Hogan
Follow Billie, a four-year-old with microtia who wears a BAHA, as she and her Deaf and Hard of Hearing friends explore self-advocacy, communication strategies, and the superpower of embracing differences.

All the Ways I Hear You by Stephanie Marrufo
This inclusive story introduces Sy and his friends as they share the many ways children who are deaf, hard of hearing, or deafblind communicate using technology, sign language, and family support.

Dad and Me in the Morning by Patricia Lakin
A gentle, beautifully illustrated story that highlights connection and understanding through quiet moments, reminding readers that communication goes far beyond spoken words.

❄️ January is full of opportunities to connect and celebrate!

The NC Division of Services for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (NCDSDHH) is hosting events across the state this month for families, self-advocates, and the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community. From community gatherings to informative workshops, there are plenty of ways to engage, connect, and access valuable resources to kick off the New Year!

📅 Check out the full list of January events below.

💛 Connect, Learn, and Grow with FSN

The Family Support Network of North Carolina (FSN) is offering a variety of opportunities for families, caregivers, and self-advocates to connect, learn, and build community. From virtual workshops to interactive trainings, FSN events provide valuable resources, guidance, and support to help families navigate the journey of raising children with special healthcare needs. Click on the button below to view events.