Contrary to what people believe, babies with hearing problems were born into a family that doesn’t have it. Instead, deafness is a frequent health issue caused by various factors such as loud sounds, illnesses present during the mother’s pregnancy, and even old age. In fact, according to studies, older adults who are in the range of 65 and 74 are more likely than others to turn deaf, with roughly half of those over that range already experiencing difficulties hearing. In some cases, it may even cause dementia, depression, and withdrawal from others.
But although assistive technologies and techniques such as hearing aids, suitable health care solutions, and language approaches can significantly boost productivity and skills in some seniors, looking after your kids in similar circumstances may require more. Therefore, the most crucial step is to consider all possible options available and understand the ailment itself to better provide your youngster with the assistance they require as they move forward in life with this condition.
Begin as early as possible
Early intervention is critical for children who have a hearing impairment. The baby’s brain develops easily and quickly; therefore, it’s crucial to support the channels and pathways of sound as early as possible. Failure to do so may cause social communication, speech development, and vital interaction skills they will need later in life.
Know that treatments and therapies can be started at any age to assist the brain in better processing sounds. Fortunately, most hospitals across the States screen newborns for deafness soon after birth. As a result, infants can be equipped with hearing aids as early as a few days old. You may also solicit assistance from your child’s physician in locating a qualified expert in the field to assist you in selecting the most appropriate treatment.
Take advantage of special education services
Because most parents of children diagnosed with hearing problems do not suffer from the disorder, they need to learn how to adequately address and deal with a family member living with such. Therefore, having an early intervention plan can assist you in coordinating all of the support, services, and any other resources your kid will require later on in life. For instance, babies who are deaf or have difficulty hearing and recognizing sounds should be placed in one as early as the conditions are detected.
It is your responsibility to coordinate with hearing experts and find local public schools and hospitals that may be able to direct you to a course or program equipped with what your child needs. Moreover, the early intervention also offers assistance to families to fully educate them on assisting and motivating their kids towards their communication and speech development.
Don’t hesitate to reach out for support
It is much simpler to assist your youngster if you also receive the assistance you require. In addition, because the ailment may be overwhelming and stressful, most families may need additional emotional aid when dealing with hearing loss, especially when children are involved.
Counseling is a practical approach, and many parents find this helpful when dealing with the circumstances. Others also seek assistance from support groups and organizations both physically and online. These services allow you to communicate and share experiences and even tips with others dealing with the same issue. The commonality also gives you a sense of belonging and affirmation which is valuable in times like these.
Play around with different sounds alongside your youngster
Early exposure to sounds, music, speech, and noises will aid your child’s language development and may even add more to their vocabulary. Create new, easy methods as part of your daily routine. For example, buy them some storybooks and read them together during playtime or bedtime. Describe the pictures and colors you see.
In addition, you can have exercises that promote sound imitation for your child. These activities will encourage them to take cues that they can use when speaking with their peers or other people around. Moreover, don’t forget to put into words the activities you are engaging in. For example, it could be how you are baking their favorite cookie together or that you are on your way to their weekend playdate with their friends and cousins.
Getting assistance for kids with hearing impairment might take a significant amount of energy, effort, and time. Therefore, remember to also consider your personal health and well-being along the way. Learn to find time for you to recharge as it is vital in meeting the support that your family needs in times like these.
