All across America, as the autumn season returns, families begin the yearly ritual known as going back to school. However, returning to school can be very stressful for families with children suffering from hearing loss. Changes in routine, accompanied by the hectic pace of getting ready, are enough to overwhelm and add undue pressure on returning students. To help with this, we have compiled the best tips and tricks for kids with hearing loss to help reduce stress and make the transition from summer vacation to the new school year as easy as possible.
Tips For Kids With Hearing Loss for the New School Year
#1. Beginning the transition sooner than later will help reduce stress. There are a few tried and true methods to accomplish this:
• Begin purchasing supplies as soon as they are available.
• Attend the school’s open enrollment (open house) to ensure they know where the class is.
• Meet and introduce your child to their teacher.
• Ensure all medical tests and documentation are updated before visiting the school’s faculty.
#2. Check or upgrade hearing aid equipment and tests. Get current medical information together, so the school is not operating from outdated information.
• Most schools require that accommodations can only be given with current and proper documentation.
• Outdated medical information may not reflect your child’s current needs.
• Old or malfunctioning equipment can hinder communication and impact your child’s ability to learn.
#3. Talk to the audiologist and your child’s school about the available accommodations. New devices and accommodations are constantly being rolled out, so keeping up with the latest developments is essential.
• Ask about FM devices and amplifiers.
• Inquire about note-taking help and assistance.
• Talk about seating arrangements and distance from the instructor.
In the end, as the parent, you are your child’s best advocate for success at school. Taking proactive steps will help ensure hearing issues do not get in the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Beginning the transition to the new school year early helps reduce stress for children with hearing loss. This includes purchasing supplies as soon as possible, attending open house events to familiarize with the school layout, meeting the teacher ahead of time, and ensuring all medical documentation is up to date. Early preparation makes the adjustment smoother and more manageable.
Checking and upgrading hearing aid equipment before the school year ensures that communication is not hindered by outdated or malfunctioning devices. Schools often require current documentation to provide accommodations. Up-to-date equipment and medical information reflect the child's current hearing needs and support effective learning.
Parents should inquire about available accommodations such as FM devices and amplifiers, note-taking assistance, and optimal seating arrangements that minimize distance from the instructor. Staying informed about new devices and support services helps tailor the learning environment to their child's hearing needs.
Most schools require current and proper medical documentation to approve accommodations. Outdated documents may not accurately represent the child's needs and can prevent the school from providing necessary support. Keeping medical records current ensures the child receives appropriate assistance.
Parents can be strong advocates by proactively preparing for the school year, communicating with teachers and audiologists, ensuring medical information and equipment are current, and discussing appropriate accommodations with the school. This involvement helps remove barriers related to hearing loss and promotes academic success.