Help your child describe his or her hearing loss in age-appropriate language. Children are naturally inquisitive and will likely stare and ask questions about the hearing aids. If your child has the words to explain what they are, other children will find it easier to accept. For example, most kids can understand that hearing aids are like eyeglasses, only they’re for hearing better rather than seeing better.

Teach your child how to verbalize his or her needs with confidence. Role play to help your child find appropriate ways to tell others friends, teachers, other adults what he or she needs to hear better.

Encourage your child to face others who are speaking and to work hard at paying attention. This is not only an important communication skill but plays a lifelong role in developing positive relationships with others.

Find mentors. Introduce your child to happy, successful adults with hearing losses. They will not only come to accept that their hearing loss is for life, they will see how hearing loss doesn’t hold people back from doing what they want to do.

If you suspect your child is the object of teasing, do not hesitate to enlist professional advice for coping strategies. Giving children the words and the skills to advocate for themselves is important; however, your child may need your involvement.

Set high expectations for your child. Do not excuse your child from good manners or household responsibilities or shield him or her from social situations.