I agree with the idea of the Infant Hearing Program. I believe that parents are benefiting from knowing if their child is Deaf, Hard of Hearing, or Hearing at an early stage of life; what I do not agree is the approach and the views that most (if not all) individuals working with the Infant Hearing Program are approaching parents with Deaf or Hard of Hearing babies. I was corresponding with an audiologist and they had mentioned that ever since the Infant Hearing Program was established the increase in Cochlear Implants increased a fair amount. Now, this makes me draw the conclusion that maybe the IHP was designed to draw more people into the idea of CI. As a mother, family of Deaf individuals, and student of ASL, I am very perturbed by the idea that ASL is being thrown to the side and not given as an option for parents of deaf babies.
Nevertheless, it is our calling as allies to educate and embrace Deaf children and Adults!
I leave you with this quote to reflect upon:
"The word, reflect in Latin means to refold. Take the example of your reflection in the mirror. When you look in the mirror the image goes in, refolds, and reflects. In the same way, taking the time to reflect on circumstances or events in your life will bring you new insights. There is no real learning process, sense of discovery, or insight without reflection." - Mick Ukleja co - author of the book "Who are You?"