Information for researchers
Aussie Deaf Kids receives frequent requests from researchers seeking support to recruit participants for studies involving children with hearing loss and their families. We are committed to supporting ethical, high-quality research that aims to improve outcomes for children who are deaf or hard of hearing. Research Participation and Support We encourage parents and their children […]
Sounds & Signs September 2026
The September 2026 edition of Sounds & Signs – the official newsletter of Aussie Deaf Kids – is now available. Read it online: Sounds & Signs – September 2026 Subscribe to Sounds & Signs
New page: Resources and support for young people with hearing loss
We have added a new page in our Adolescent and Young Adult section called Resources and support for young people with hearing loss. The page highlights organisations and services across Australia that can help young people connect with others, prepare for study and work, build confidence and independence, and find practical information and support. Explore […]
Research participation – Exploring the wellbeing of children with hearing loss
Parent’s Perceptions of Resilience and Quality of Life of Children with Hearing Loss: A Cross-Sectional Study. This study is looking at the relationship between resilience (how children cope with challenges)and quality of life (overall wellbeing, including emotional, social and school experiences) inchildren with hearing loss. What’s involved? A short online survey(15-20mins). Who can take part? […]
ADK Surveys 2026
Every two years, we ask our community to tell us how we’re doing. If you can spare around 5 to 10 minutes, we’d really appreciate it if you could complete our latest survey. Your feedback helps us improve our services and ensure we’re meeting the needs of families. At Aussie Deaf Kids, we’re committed to […]
Sounds & Signs August 2026
The August 2026 edition of Sounds & Signs – the official newsletter of Aussie Deaf Kids – is now available. Read it online: Sounds & Signs – August 2026 Subscribe to Sounds & Signs
Join our Board of Directors: Expressions of Interest
Aussie Deaf Kids is seeking passionate and skilled individuals to join our Board of Directors. As Australia’s leading online support organisation for families of children who are deaf or hard of hearing, we are looking for people who share our commitment to ensuring every family has access to trusted information, connection and support. We welcome […]
New page: Navigating school – Digital toolkit
New page: Navigating School – Digital Toolkit for Families We’re pleased to share a new page in our Support at School section featuring the Navigating School Digital Toolkit, developed by Belongside Families. Belongside Families have kindly given us permission to share information about this excellent resource, which is designed to help families communicate and work […]
Sounds & Signs July 2026
The July 2026 edition of Sounds & Signs – the official newsletter of Aussie Deaf Kids – is now available. Read it online: Sounds & Signs – July 2026 Subscribe to Sounds & Signs
A personal reflection
This year marked my final trip to Bad Ischl, Austria, for the FCEI Conference. Since attending my first conference in 2012, each one has been a truly life-changing experience. I have had the privilege of meeting so many remarkable people—parents, researchers and professionals—who have inspired me, challenged my thinking and become lifelong friends and mentors. […]
Thank you, Andrew Stewart
After more than 40 years supporting people who are deaf or hard of hearing, Andrew Stewart has announced his retirement. Andrew has been a valued friend of Aussie Deaf Kids for more than 20 years. Throughout that time, he has generously shared his expertise and lived experience, helping countless families navigate hearing technology with practical […]
Five Smartphone Features Every Parent Should Know About
One of the most practical presentations at the 2026 FCEI Conference came from Dr Tina Childress, an audiologist who is also a cochlear implant user. She demonstrated that many of the communication tools families need are already built into iPhones and Android phones—and they’re free. Whether you’re at school, in the car, at the dinner […]
Button battery safety
Hearing aids use small button batteries, and these batteries can be extremely dangerous if swallowed or placed inside the body. Serious injuries can occur within hours, so it’s important to make button battery safety part of your family’s routine. The responsibility for safely storing and disposing of button batteries rests with adults. Here are some […]
Sounds & Signs June 2026
The June 2026 edition of Sounds & Signs – the official newsletter of Aussie Deaf Kids – is now available. Read it online: Sounds & Signs – June 2026 Subscribe to Sounds & Signs
Other people’s stories – helpful or risky?
Listening to other parents’ and Deaf adults’ stories can be incredibly valuable. Their lived experiences can give you insight into what life might really look like for your child and family. But remember, one person’s experience is not the whole picture. Stories are often shaped by: personal experiences and emotions what worked (or didn’t work) for […]
Sounds & Signs May 2026
The May 2026 edition of Sounds & Signs – the official newsletter of Aussie Deaf Kids – is now available. Read it online: Sounds & Signs – May 2026 Subscribe to Sounds & Signs
Research participation – Listening between the lines
Listening between the lines. Help researchers from Flinders University understand how young people with hearing devices experience everyday listening and communication. This research aims to better understand real-world listening and communication experiences to help inform more responsive clinical and support practices for young people using hearing devices. What’s involved? A short online survey(10-15mins) If eligible: […]
Sounds & Signs April 2026
The April 2026 edition of Sounds & Signs – the official newsletter of Aussie Deaf Kids – is now available. Read it online: Sounds & Signs – April 2026 Subscribe to Sounds & Signs
Jimmy’s World Hearing Day presentation – raising awareness at school
Thank you Jimmy for sharing your World Hearing Day (WHD) presentation! The WHD theme for 2026 is From Communities to Classrooms: Hearing health for every child. So, this is a fantastic way to raise awareness about hearing health and deafness at school. Watch Jimmy’s presentation here or watch on YouTube. Jimmy – World Hearing Day […]
A letter to myself
My daughter has just turned 18 and finished her HSC, her Drama individual performance was chosen to be performed at “Onstage”, it was her story of growing up deaf. It has had me reflecting so much on the journey of the last 18 years and I wrote a letter to myself. Dear me, I’m writing […]
Get connected using the National Relay Service (NRS)
Get Connected: How the National Relay Service (NRS) Empowers Youth and Parents In today’s fast-paced world, staying connected is more important than ever, especially for young people their families and friends. The National Relay Service (NRS) offers a lifeline, ensuring everyone can communicate effortlessly and confidently. Why Choose NRS? The NRS provides a range of […]