Is this a deaf thing?
Is my child misbehaving because of their personality, or is it because there is a breakdown in communication or understanding? Is it a Deaf Thing? Check out the link to the article on the Hands & Voices website… Download the Real Life Tips infographic. More information: Is this a deaf thing? | Hands & Voices […]
Terminology
There are various terms for describing people with varying degrees or kinds of deafness. The most important and common terms are shown above. It can be a matter of personal preference, a cultural thing, and/or a language choice. So, to avoid offending someone, it is best to ask what term/s they prefer. For definitions and […]
How to explain a genetic condition to your child
Children can start asking why they have a hearing loss from a young age. It is not an easy discussion, and there are no hard and fast rules. Genetics is a complex topic, and the amount of information they need will depend on their age. Young children benefit from small amounts of information. They can […]
How youth can develop social capital
Social capital refers to the value and benefits that arise from an individual’s relationships, connections, and networks with others in a community or society. For most young people, having social capital is beneficial in transitioning to postsecondary education and employment. For adolescents who are deaf or hard of hearing (DHH), social capital can help them […]
I don’t like being deaf
As parents of a child who is deaf or hard of hearing, we often have to answer tricky questions or have difficult conversations with our kids. They may not like their hearing devices or being different from other kids and struggle with their sense of self and identity. Dr Bianca Birdsey is a mother of […]
Managing listening fatigue
Children with hearing loss have to concentrate more than their hearing peers to hear, comprehend and respond effectively. There is a lot of energy required in lip reading, interpreting expressions, and filling in the gaps in conversations. It is no wonder our kids are in a state of exhaustion when they get home from school. […]
Travelling with cochlear implants
Family holidays are a time for fun! However, travelling with kids who wear cochlear implants needs some planning before you set off on your adventure. Packing tips: cochlear implant card or patient ID card rechargeable batteries and charger disposable batteries in case no access to power spare processors, cables and coils wireless accessory for audio/communication […]
Keeping hearing aids on babies
At about six months of age, babies start gaining more control of their hands and begin to explore the world around them. Just as many babies find it interesting to pull off their shoes and socks, some babies love to pull off their hearing aids. Some babies also put them in their mouths. Here are […]
Donating or recycling old hearing aids
Rather than throwing out your child’s old hearing aids or storing them in a drawer, they can be recycled or donated. Not only are you helping the planet, but you can help those who are on low incomes or in developing nations. Click on the links to find out how. Hearing Australia can also use […]
Cleaning Time
It is a good idea to regularly clean and check your child’s hearing aids or processors and other equipment. Some parents undertake this cleaning process every 3 months and align it with the school holidays which serve as a helpful reminder. If you have little ones you may need to clean them more often. Craft […]
Teaching your DHH Teen to Drive
Learning to drive can be a stressful time for both parent and student, especially if they are deaf or hard of hearing. However, don’t let this deter you as they are just as safe on the road as hearing drivers. If applicable, insist they wear their hearing aids or cochlear implant while driving. Ensure they […]
Making informed decisions
There are four steps to making informed decisions: STEP 1: What decision do I need to make? How long do I have to make this decision? What is my role in this process? STEP 2: What are my options? What are the possible benefits and risks of each option? How would this decision affect my […]