DHH/Speech and Language Program
HHLA is the only educational institution in the Greater Louisville and Southern Indiana region that provides an extensive, specialized curriculum and early childhood education to children who are DHH or have speech, language and communication disorders.
We keep classroom sizes small to ensure best practices for our young learners needing repeated vocabulary exposure, syntax acquisition and multiple conversational turns. Every child in this program may receive in-house speech services from our speech language pathologists (SLPs) in addition to any district-supported services by their contracted SLPs. Children and staff also receive support from our audiologist team. We encourage interprofessional practices with any outside professionals who are also part of a child and family’s journey (e.g., occupational therapists, physical therapists, behavior specialists, etc.).
Since the 1970s, HHLA has partnered with Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) and the surrounding Kentucky school districts to provide services for eligible children who are DHH at no cost to the families. If HHLA is not a child’s public school placement option, families are provided a sliding tuition scale option that considers other financial obligations. We are happy to say that no child with hearing loss has ever been denied services due to an inability to pay.
General Preschool Program
As of the 2025-2026 school year, HHLA is enrolling preschool-aged children in a general education setting. From ages 3-6, children will have a centers-based experience while sharing spaces with children who are DHH or have speech and language needs. The model is play-based and includes a variety of one- to two-week themes.
Teachers and children enter an emotionally responsive relationship that is based on research on healthy brain development. A smaller group setting than a typical preschool classroom, with a maximum of 10 children per class, builds connections and healthy adult-child relationships. Evidence-based practices show that lower child-to-adult ratios lead to stronger early childhood educational, emotional and social outcomes.
Resource: Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University
Specialized Kindergarten Instruction
Our kindergarten program supports children who need foundational academic skills in an individualized and small group setting. Through this program, children who need speech, language and communication-focused instruction continue their journey at HHLA. Modifications and adaptations are available for these children who need extra support for their future academic education and success.
Summer Enrichment Program
Discover, learn and grow at the HHLA Summer Enrichment Program!
We offer a dynamic and inclusive learning experience for children ages 3 -7. Our program is especially designed to support language development, social skills and creative exploration through hands-on activities, engaging themes and expert instruction. With a team of dedicated educators and community partners in music, art and movement, children thrive in a supportive environment where communication and connection come first. Whether strengthening foundational skills or discovering new interests, HHLA’s Summer Enrichment Program is a joyful, enriching space for every child to learn and grow.
