Today, more than 12,000 children in USA have been diagnosed with a significant hearing impairment, and there is no question that raising a deaf child is challenging and there are a number of important decisions to be made. 

Fortunately, there are a number of resources and support networks available to parents seeking to reach their hearing impaired children. Whether your child has a partial or total hearing loss, you will want to create a caring and supportive environment that encourages communication and interaction among all family members.

Offer visual stimulation

If your child has been found to be hearing impaired, you, as a parent, will want to create an enriching and rewarding environment in which your child can learn and interact with him. Visual stimulation is important, as is more direct physical contact, which encourages your child to be more aware of her surroundings. Encourage other caregivers and family members to do the same.

Learn sign language

Learning for hearing impaired children is an easy way to open doors for communication between you and your child. Australian Sign Language (AUSLAN) has become more than just a form of communication for people. It is an integral part of the deaf community and its loved ones. Encouraging your family to learn AUSLAN is one way to ensure that your child feels included and offers a supportive environment that everyone can be a part of.

Education and information

As your child grows, it may be helpful to connect with instructors who specialize in teaching children with hearing problems, or who at least have experience working with deaf children. Research and information will help parents of children with hearing impairments better understand what type of hearing loss affects their child and what care and treatment they need. Conductive hearing loss, sensorineural impairment, and mixed hearing loss affect different parts of the ear and there are different treatments and options available.

Consider your options

For deaf children, a cochlear implant can open up their world and allow them to achieve results they never knew existed. These revolutionary devices have changed the lives of more than 170,000 deaf people around the world. Some parents may have reservations about this surgical procedure – a hearing expert will go over all the options with you to assess whether your child is suitable for an implant and help alleviate some of her fears.

Parents of children with hearing loss should not deal with this alone. There are a number of helpful groups and support communities that can provide you with information, advice and advice, and give you the confidence and support you need. Go to your child and they will learn and grow together.