Just Diagnosed

• Your child needs MORE experience with sound – not less. Make a lot of noise! Have fun together. Try not to worry too much. Enjoy being together and get to know one another.
• Talk to your pediatrician or audiologist about hearing aids or cochlear implants for your child sooner rather than later. The sooner your child can gain access to sound, the sooner you both can begin your speaking and listening journey!
• Consider joining an early intervention support group. Early intervention in children who are deaf or hard of hearing is critical to their success. DePaul School offers early intervention, support, and education for families starting their hearing loss journeys. There are also many organizations with information to help you make the right choices for your family.
• Ask a lot of questions. Ask your child’s doctors about their experience with pediatric hearing loss. Ask the audiologist who tests your child’s hearing about options in hearing technologies and why they recommend a particular solution for your child. When you’re choosing a program for your child, ask about literacy rates, where graduates go, and for references to other families. Answers to these questions will help you make a good choice for your child and family.
• Become an advocate for your child. There are many different approaches and ways to manage and educate children who are deaf and hard of hearing. You’ll want to make choices about the direction that’s right for your child and your family.
• Connect with other parents. Sometimes, all of the education and research in the world can’t help you navigate the minute details of parenting a child who is deaf or hard of hearing. Discussing all of the trials, tribulations, and (most importantly) successes of your journey with someone else who has been there can make it less scary!
• Get educated. There is a lot to know about hearing technologies, schooling options, your rights under the law, and more. We have a whole section of education and resources geared specifically towards parents but make sure do your own research for your own unique situation!

Everyone in the DePaul School family is happy to answer your questions, help you find the information you need, or to simply just listen. Whatever you’re looking for, we are here to help you find meaningful answers.