Parents

For Parents of Newly-Diagnosed Deaf Children

When your child is diagnosed with deafness, it’s entirely normal to feel shock, depression, grief and even anger as the news sinks in.

The good news is that with the right intervention and support, deaf children can, and do reach their full potential.

Naturally, you want to make the right decisions for your child.

Here’s some help in understanding:

1) child deafness – read this parents’ pack

2) what’s involved in assessments

3) how the visiting teacher service can be contacted

4) the communication options open to your child (read ISL, instead of ASL)

5) how to make the best informed choices for your child

6) how to manage a child’s hearing-devices

7) what support services are available (hearing assistance & education) and

8) how to create an education plan for your child

When attending appointments, it’s a good idea to bring a folder with your child’s medical, auditory and / or psychology assessments for reference.

Keeping track of which consultants you met, and where, can be very helpful if you need to refer to a previous meeting or opinion that was given.

Make sure you are fully comfortable with any decisions – and that you ask any questions necessary for your peace of mind.

• Essential Hearing-Aid Tips For Parents And Families

Please send all feedback to info@irishdeafkids.ie .