Elsie was born into a family of typically hearing parents and two typically hearing siblings. We pursued a listening and spoken language communication mode to ensure that Elsie would have the opportunity to fully participate in the language of her family and the world around her. 

When Elsie was first fitted with a hearing aid in March of 2020, WISE became a crucial lifeline as we were thrust into unfamiliar territory at the onset of a global pandemic–even navigating multiple changes in Elsie’s hearing in the midst of it. WISE has continued to support and celebrate Elsie’s unique journey of listening and speaking at every step. 

I genuinely look forward to our weekly therapy sessions, where WISE professionals have developed individualized strategies for us to support her at home, tracked her language progress, and provided developmentally appropriate tools and confidence for advocacy. We love that we are viewed as full partners in her care and that we have a safe place to go with questions or concerns about Elsie’s unique needs.

At the WISE preschool, Elsie is taught and supported by professionals with specialized knowledge of her needs and equipment. She comes home singing songs, showing off crafts, and telling stories about what she and her friends did at school, just as any preschooler should do! We know, however, that her teachers have also used each song and activity as a tool to develop crucial listening and language skills.

When Elsie is with anyone from WISE, it’s obvious that she feels safe and loved and encouraged to do and be her best, and thanks to the support from WISE we know that she will continue to learn and grow in language and in confidence!

Alice Hamilton, Elsie’s Mom