Debbie Institute Educational Programs

Debbie Institute Educational Programs includes the Auditory Oral Education Program, where children who are deaf or hard of hearing learn to communicate by listening and talking. It also includes the Early Education Program, which provides early education services, speech therapy, physical therapy, and occupational therapy for children with developmental disabilities. Other offerings include the Early Childhood Education Program for children without disabilities, The Bridge to Speech Project, and the Little Explorers Summer Program.

Programs

• Auditory Oral Education Program — birth to seven years of age · Provides early educational intervention services for children who are deaf or hard of hearing. Children learn to communicate by listening and talking.
• Early Education Program — birth through three years of age · Provides early intervention services for children with developmental disabilities. Children receive early education services as well as speech therapy, physical therapy, and occupational therapy.
• Early Childhood Education Program — birth through four years of age · Provides services for children without disabilities in classrooms in either the Auditory Oral Education Program or the Early Education Program.
• Debbie School Auditory Oral Program Classrooms
• The Bridge to Speech Project — 3 through 6 years of age
• Little Explorers Summer Program — birth to five years of age · Provides high quality services for children with disabilities and their families in an inclusive environment.

At a glance

• Ages: 0–7 years old

About the provider

The Debbie School was established fifty years ago. Its mission is to produce new knowledge and train future professionals while enriching the lives of young children during the critical years of early learning in an educational environment that creates the foundation for lifelong success. It also provides community support through consultation, collaboration, technical assistance, and training in hearing technology, listening and spoken language development, and academic domains for professionals and students in school districts throughout South Florida.

Children with disabilities and who might benefit from the services offered at the Debbie Institute are referred through the Early Steps Programs (North and South) and other community agencies.

Last updated October 16, 2026.