As the back-to-school season kicks off, parents and children are busy with the usual preparations. However, for the approximately 34 million children worldwide with hearing loss, getting ready for school involves some additional steps. Let’s explore how attending school with hearing loss is unique, discover ways to support your child and see how hearing aids can play an important role in their success.
How is School Different for Children With Hearing Loss?
Attending school can be a significantly different experience for children with hearing loss compared to their peers. They may require more focused attention to understand lessons, struggle with group activities where sound can be overwhelming and have trouble making friends due to communication barriers. While this difference sounds stressful, it doesn’t need to be. By supporting your child and equipping them with hearing aids, they can enjoy a successful school year.
How Can You Help Your Child?
A few ways you can help your child succeed at school include:
- Arrange meetings with school teachers, nurses and other personnel before school starts to discuss your child’s hearing needs, demonstrate how to operate their hearing aids and share any specific accommodations they might require.
- Pack backup batteries, a storage case, retention clips or lanyards and a maintenance kit to help prepare your child for any situation that might arise during the school day.
- If your child participates in sports, coordinate with the coach to address any special considerations, such as helmet compatibility with hearing aids, removing their devices before swimming or the need for additional communication support.
- Ensure your child is ready for field trips by working closely with their teacher to provide any necessary equipment or support to keep them engaged and connected during off-campus activities.
- Encourage your child to communicate their needs, whether asking for help with their hearing aids, requesting extra time on assignments or pairing up with specific people for group work.
How Can Hearing Aids Help?
Hearing aids bring amplified sound to your child’s ear to improve their communication understanding. While some children may feel self-conscious about wearing hearing aids, smaller devices and confidence building can help them feel secure in their devices. Talk about how their devices can help them pay attention in class, have fun at recess or participate fully during field trips to the Kentucky Science Center.
Taking these proactive steps can help your child feel confident and ready to tackle their hearing loss in school. To learn more about your child’s hearing loss, contact Certified Hearing Aid Consultants today to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists.