Support team

A parent in the support team

Trust your instincts

If you at any time question the advice given by the experts, or feel that you have received inadequate information, or observe that your child’s hearing aids are no longer functioning as they were, or if you have any other concerns, seek help. You are the one that knows your child best.

Become informed

The more you learn about hearing impairment and the help available, the better you can be at securing the best possible care for your child. Learn about your child’s rights and options and strive to understand the specifics of your child’s hearing loss and the function of the available technology.

Expand the support team

A broad support team is a good base for your child’s future. In addition to the professional group consisting of hearing healthcare professionals and teachers, you can find great support and resources through organisations, parent groups, publications, etc.

Take care of yourself

In addition to all of the typical demands of raising a child, the special needs of a hearing impaired child can sometimes overwhelm. Before "busy" turns to "stressed" it may be a good idea to take a look at how well you are taking care of yourself.

Take one step at a time

Patience and pacing will help make any task more manageable, so take things one day at a time, be realistic in your expectations and remember to celebrate the victories. No accomplishment is too small to be celebrated. But when things are tough, share your fears and feelings with family or friends. Their support and understanding can help you see problems or setbacks in a better light. And don’t be afraid to ask for help when needed. But most important, whenever possible relax and have fun!

Other support team components

In addition to the important role of the parent in the ongoing support of a child with a hearing loss, there are several other components which should comprise the support team :

Audiology and medical support

Your hearing healthcare professionals are responsible that your child benefits from the latest technology and intervention processes available. Your audiologist should provide your child with frequent hearing assessments and necessary adjustments to the hearing aids. The audiologist should also provide you with the appropriate skills to operate the hearing aid and provide the necessary information pertaining to the management of your child’s hearing loss.

Speech and language training

Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists possess various techniques and tools in order to train and assist your child in developing good speech and language. This training may be available in your child’s school or in a private practice. This professional should also instruct you as to the appropriate communication practices in the home and school environments.

School support

If possible, it is important to choose your child’s school based on the level of support that school may have in place for students with hearing impairment. Certain teachers and teacher’s aids may provide special services. In the section entitled "School" you will find a school checklist which should be considered when choosing a school for your child. If you cannot choose the school your child will be attending, the checklist can be shown to the school administration in order to help secure any necessary changes to your child’s classroom.