Realizing your child has a hearing loss can be overwhelming. Take time to learn about hearing loss and how to best help your child.

Take time out for yourself when you need it, or talk to someone about how you are feeling.

Support your child to build his/her confidence.

Always speak to your child in a normal voice. Many children find loud sounds uncomfortable, even with a hearing loss.

When you speak to your child ensure you are no further than six feet away.

Keep background noise to a minimum (it may be difficult, even impossible, for your child to hear you while the television is on).

Make eye contact with your child before speaking and maintain it while you talk.

Keep distractions (such as chewing or touching your hair or face) to a minimum when speaking.

If your child misunderstands something you’ve said, try rephrasing rather than simply repeating it.

Do not repeat or interpret what other people say to your child: let your child do his or her own hearing.

Offer positive encouragement to your child. Older children may feel frustrated or angry; make yourself available if your child wishes to discuss feelings of frustration. It’s better to acknowledge rather than deny the feelings, and discuss ways to manage the frustration.