Parents

For Parents of Newly-Detected Deaf Children

Parents of children whose deafness is newly-confirmed, have a lot going on. They need to know where to seek advice, to meet others, to learn a whole new terminology, and how to navigate the national healthcare, support & education systems.

When your child is diagnosed with deafness, it’s entirely normal to feel shock, depression, grief and even anger as the news sinks in.

The good news is that with the right intervention and support, deaf children can, and do reach their full potential. Deafness is different in the digital age!

Check the Ten Commandments for Kids with Hearing Issues

The Ten Commandments

Naturally, you want to make the right decisions for your child.

Here’s some help in understanding:

1. What’s involved in assessments.
2. How the visiting teacher service can be contacted.
3. The communication options open to your child (there are several)
4. How your child can learn to listen and talk.
5. How your family at home can teach your child to listen and speak.
6. How to make the best informed choices for your child.
7. How to manage a child’s hearing-devices.
8. How your family can grow to accept your child’s hearing-technologies.
9. What support services are available (hearing assistance & education).
10. How to create an education plan for your child.
11. Parents’ essential role in childrens’ spoken language learning.

When attending appointments, it’s a good idea to bring a folder with your child’s medical, auditory and / or psychology assessments for reference.

Tracking which consultants you met, and where, can be a lifeline if you need to refer to a past meeting or opinion that was given.

Make sure you are fully comfortable with any decisions – and you ask the questions necessary for peace of mind.

Accurate information is essential from the start – make sure you are fully informed on all your options.

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