Welcome! We would like to discuss and answer your questions here about hearing loss, hearing loss device technology, hearing conservation, and any related matters. Please email your questions and comments to: info@vancouverhearingcentre.com

Audiologists at the Vancouver Hearing Centre specialize in hearing loss management, hearing conservation, and aural (re)habilitation. We serve children and adults of all ages in the Vancouver area and from around British Columbia, Canada.

Tuesday, May 11, 2010

Kid's Zone: Tips For Feeling Better About Your Child's Hearing Loss

A PARENT's GUIDE

Accepting
a hearing loss is the first step in overcoming the problem. It is natural for you and your child to have mixed feelings about their hearing loss and the possibility of wearing a hearing aid.
The following are a few suggestions to help your child feel better about their hearing loss and their hearing aid:

Come to terms with your child having a hearing loss.

If you have negative feelings about the loss or are unable to accept it, it is likely your child will feel badly about it and will be unable to accept it. If you are positive and supportive, your child will be much more accepting of their hearing loss.

Let your child know that there is nothing wrong with having a hearing loss.

Let them know that you love them and it makes no difference to you that they have hearing loss.

Do not allow your child to use the hearing loss to get out of doing things.

Remember they are a normal child who has some difficulty hearing. Don’t allow the hearing loss or the hearing aid to become an excuse.

It takes time to get used to a hearing aid.

Wearing an aid takes practice. Be patient. Do not give up too quickly. Give your child and the hearing aid a fair trial.

Be matter of fact about the hearing aid.

Let them know they are expected to wear the hearing aid every day and putting it on is part of their daily routine.

Don’t try to hide the hearing loss or the hearing device.

Let your child know if people ask about their hearing device, it means they want to know more. Encourage family members and close friends to understand what the hearing loss means and how the hearing aid works.

Encourage your child to be as independent as possible with their hearing aid.

They should take responsibility for adjusting the loudness, changing the battery and cleaning the ear molds as soon as possible. Giving them ownership of their hearing aid will give them a sense of control and help their self esteem.

• Help your child have realistic expectations of their hearing aid.

It will not give them normal hearing. Remind them that the hearing aid will help them hear better.

Help your child see the hearing aid as a “tool”.

It can make things easier for them at school, talking with their friends, using the telephone, and watching TV.

blogger: Sarah Helmel