Hearing loss

Communication

Exactly what and how your child hears is dependant upon the specifics of his or her unique hearing loss. Ask your hearing healthcare professional to describe your child’s hearing loss in terms which help you to communicate as effectively as possible with your child.

In most cases, it will be recommended that you use clear, articulate speech to emphasise certain key sounds which enhance the intelligibility of words and sentences spoken to your child. This will minimise the need for repetition and will greatly facilitate communication with your child.

It is a good idea to attend speech and language training sessions

Speech and language training sessions may further enhance the development of both receptive (hearing) and expressive (talking) forms of speech and language. A specialist in this area will create an enjoyable learning environment for your child where he or she will teach your child to easily recognise and produce certain sounds, words and sentences.

In the case where your child may have a bilateral severe or profound hearing loss, a similar approach in speech and language training may be initiated. Consideration may also be given to supplementing or replacing this training with one or more alternative teaching methods. These may include the use of lip-reading, gestures and expressions, finger spelling or certain signs.

Communicating with a child with hearing loss

Never speak with your back to the child.

Be close to the child when you communicate. The volume level is reduced by half when the distance is doubled, and an increase of the distance of just a few metres can prevent the message from being understood.
Make eye contact.
When you address the child in a room where others are present, say the child’s name.
Speak clearly and slowly – without shouting. The problem is usually not the volume of your voice, but the articulation of your words.
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We have compiled a list of things in children’s behaviour that may indicate hearing difficulties.

Read about how to communicate successfully with a child with hearing loss.


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