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 name and contact details
- Photo of your child (including a photo can assist with easy identification especially when there are different carers or teachers)
Information about your child’s hearing loss:
- Type of hearing loss – see Link 1
- Degree of hearing loss – see Link 2
- Brief description of what this means for your child (for example: unilateral hearing loss in left ear, then child should preferably sit so their right ear is facing the teacher)
Information about devices:
- Brief operating and troubleshooting instructions
- for their hearing devices, including changing
- batteries and charging devices – see Link 3
- Images of devices
Teaching tips:
- Appropriate use of devices (a handheld microphone can be used by students when they are presenting something to their classmates)
- Good listening environments (request that they keep background noise to a minimum when teaching or explaining things to your child)
– see Links 4,5 & 6 - Communication tips (teachers may need to get your child’s attention before giving instructions or write instructions on the board)
– see Link 7
Supports child is receiving outside school:
- speech therapy, Auslan tutoring, etc.
Download the Real Life Tips infographic.
More information:
- Link 1: Types of hearing loss
- Link 2: Describing the severity of a hearing loss
- Link 3: How do hearing aids work
- Link 4: Creating a good listening environment
- Link 5: Classroom tips
- Link 6: How listener friendly is your classroom
- Link 7: A quick guide to communication
- eBook for Teachers (includes customisable templates)
