Making your home deaf-friendly
As parents, we are constantly advocating for our child who is deaf or hard of hearing. We want our children to have equal access at daycare, in the classroom, and in public spaces. But what about in our own homes? Here are some tips for making your home more deaf-friendly, including some if you are […]
Using visual cues with infants
Whether your little one is learning spoken language, sign language, or both, VISUAL cues are invaluable. Children who are deaf or hard of hearing rely on their eyes to take in information around them. By incorporating visual cues such as facial expressions, sign language, and gestures, into everyday interactions and activities, you can create an […]
Dealing with people who stare
Responding to people who stare at your child who is deaf or wears hearing aids or cochlear implants can be challenging. Here are some practical tips on how to handle such situations gracefully: Stay calm and positive: Keep your own emotions in check and model a calm, positive attitude. Children often take cues from their […]
Fill in the gaps
When children are deaf or hard of hearing, they can miss out on information around them. Imagine your child is having a great time playing with blocks. There is a light knock on the door, and you get up to answer it. It can help to anticipate that your child probably did not hear the […]
Connecting with other families
From sharing tips, exchanging advice or being a support network to one another, connecting with others going through similar experiences can be invaluable. Parents, carers, children and young people will benefit and feel less isolated when connecting with other families on their journey of childhood deafness. There are many ways to connect, so choose what […]
Teens dealing with social isolation
It is quite normal for our teens who are deaf or hard of hearing to feel isolated at times. However, if they are experiencing persistent feelings of loneliness, it’s important to seek solutions. There are things your teen can do to feel less isolated: 1. Talk Encourage them to reach out to you (parent/carer) or […]
Social model of disability
As parents of children with hearing loss, we want to protect our kids from discrimination and ensure they have equal access in society. Deafness and hearing loss are complex issues that affect each child differently. A social model of disability accepts their individual differences and removes barriers so they can participate in their community and […]
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 […]
Turning 18
As your child who is deaf or hard of hearing approaches adulthood, important actions may need to be taken to assist them in moving forward as an independent adult. Individual Transition Plan – for school leavers is a tool used in some states to assist students with disabilities and additional learning needs in preparing for […]
Successfully navigating Individual Education Plans
An Individual Education Plan (IEP) or Individual Learning Plan (ILP) is a written statement that outlines the goals, strategies, and adjustments needed to meet a student’s unique educational needs. The IEP is important in helping students reach their full potential! The plan is developed collaboratively by a team of people who are invested in the […]
Options if special provisions for year 12 exams are denied
It’s NOT too late! If your child is in year 12 and the school’s application for special provisions for year 12 final exams has been denied, there are options. 1. Appeal the decision. Work with your child’s school to submit an appeal to the particular authority in your State or Territory. This may mean obtaining […]
When you change routine
When planning activities like holidays that are not part of your family’s regular routine, take the time to share the information with your child who is deaf or hard of hearing. They are unlikely to learn what’s happening from overhearing your conversations. Download the Real Life Tips infographic. More information: Building a routine | NDCS […]
Multilingualism – family language strategy
Multilingualism is a SUPERPOWER! Don’t be discouraged from teaching your child a second or third language just because they are deaf or hard of hearing. There are strategies families can use to help their children with hearing loss to be successful multilingual learners. These include planning and goal setting, developing family language strategies and keeping […]
Reading an audiogram
It can be a stressful time when having your baby or child’s hearing tested. You may not take in everything the audiologist tells you at the time of the appointment, or understand what this might mean for your child. What can the audiogram tell you? The audiogram is a graph showing the softest sound your […]
Fun pragmatics
Pragmatics is the way in which we use language in different social situations. It’s important for taking part in conversations and interactions in socially acceptable ways. Most children develop pragmatics skills during their early years by being exposed to language around them and engaging socially with others. However, it can be more challenging for our […]
Genetic Testing
Genetic testing involves analysing your child’s DNA to identify specific genetic mutations associated with hearing conditions. It can help diagnose the cause of hearing loss, predict the risk of future hearing issues, and guide treatment options. However, the decision about whether or not to have genetic testing should not be rushed. Genetic testing can provide […]