If your child has a loss of hearing, it's because the sound signals are not reaching the brain (NHS Choices - Hearing loss). Your child might not need a lot of support, but their progress will be monitored. For other children, a lot of support and planning may be needed to make sure they achieve to the best of their ability.

If your child has difficulty hearing, they may tell you one or more of these things on a regular basis:

• other people seem to mumble
• people often have to repeat things
• they have difficulty understanding what is being said in noisy places
• it’s hard to keep up with group conversation
• they get tired because they have to concentrate so much.

How can I help?

If your child is hard of hearing, it is still important to speak to them. Other ways you can support your child's learning include:

• make jigsaws from familiar pictures, cards, photos
• label household objects
• make a shopping list – stick pictures next to the words and let your child collect the items
• use a weekly chart with photos of activities
• try activities like dressing up, cooking and gardening with your child which can also encourage your child to use different senses.

Where can I find further advice?

• Scottish Sensory Centre
• Aussie Deaf Kids - Activities for home
• Sense - Early support for your deafblind child