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 […]
Decisions, it’s okay to change them
As parents, we want to make the best decisions for our children. We gather information from various sources and then make our educated choices. When it comes to young children who are deaf or hard of hearing, there are big decisions to be made – method of communication, whether to aid or implant, choosing a […]
Couch potato or bookworm
Parents need to consider how much they influence the future behaviour of their children by setting an example. Children tend to copy their parents’ behaviour. If parents are readers, their children will be apt to read. There is strong evidence that children raised in families that enjoy reading and writing as an activity are inclined […]
Remember to enjoy time together over Christmas
The festive season is the perfect time for families to take a break from the stresses of everyday life and spend quality time together. So, don’t forget to take some time to create positive experiences and find joy in the little things, and in each other’s company. Download the Real Life Tips infographic.
Making Christmas deaf friendly
Christmas is an exciting time for children, but for deaf and hard of hearing kids, it can also be very stressful and tiring due to being surrounded by more people and more noise. Here are some of the adjustments you can do to make Christmas deaf friendly: Use tablecloths to minimise the sound of cutlery […]
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 […]
Transition to post-school education and employment
Young people who are deaf or hard of hearing (DHH) can face challenges when leaving school. They will need knowledge and skills to overcome the barriers they may encounter in training, at TAFE or university, and at work. Learning skills such as self-advocacy and developing social capital before they leave school can assist in the […]
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 […]
Sharing information with teachers and classmates
Here are some tips on how to share information with teachers and classmates. Give a short presentation: This could be in person or on PowerPoint. Explain what it means to have a hearing loss and the type of adjustments needed to maximise your child’s learning. You could involve your child to help with demonstrations. Click […]
Self advocacy
Self-advocacy means looking out for yourself, knowing what you need, and communicating your needs effectively to others. Self-advocacy is a skill that your child can learn from an early age with help and practice. Self-advocacy will provide your child with an important skill that supports lifelong success. There are three key elements to teach your […]
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 […]
Creating information sheets for your child’s teacher/carer
There are different ways of sharing information about your child with their teachers. This is a guide for the type of information you can include. Remember, no list will replace the important skill of self-advocacy that both you and the teacher can encourage your child to develop! General information about your child: Name DOB Your […]
Classroom adjustments
Adjustments in the classroom can make a big difference to your child’s learning. They are crucial in giving your child equal access to education. However, adjustments need to be reasonable and not negatively impact other students or be unaffordable. Adjustments should be negotiated with the school and support staff each year or more often as […]
Classroom acoustics
Australia has acoustic standards and recommendations for primary school teaching spaces or single classrooms but these are not legislated or regulated. The recommended Australian Standards for typically developing children are: – Unoccupied noise levels: < 35 dBA – Occupied sound levels of <50 dBA There are a number of free apps available for iOS and […]
Choosing schools
Choosing a school, where your child will be happy and have the best chances to learn and develop, is very important. There are many things that you can do to help you choose a school. Our ADK website has an abundance of information that can help with this decision making process. Transition to school Types […]
Assistive devices in the classroom
Several technological devices can assist a child’s learning in the classroom. Their use and benefits will depend on the child’s level of hearing loss, the type of hearing aid or cochlear implant they wear, and the child’s age. REMOTE MICROPHONE TECHNOLOGY or FM SYSTEMS These devices usually consist of a microphone (transmitter) and a receiver. […]
Advocacy in school
Advocacy is acting on behalf of a disadvantaged person to promote, protect and defend their welfare and justice. We are the best advocates for our children as we understand their needs and want the best for them. Advocacy involves speaking on behalf of your child to negotiate for services and supports that meet their needs […]
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 […]
Turn on the light
Turn on the light or use night lights in your child’s bedroom when saying goodnight! Your child is unlikely to be wearing any hearing devices in bed and will be better able to see you and lip read. Download the Real Life Tip infographic.
