Hearing loss is different for everyone. The causes of hearing loss are numerous and there are many types and degrees of hearing loss, rendering the level of hearing different for each individual. The impact of hearing loss as well as the perception of hearing loss varies widely from individual to individual and depends on numerous factors including the person’s culture and community. Some people are culturally Deaf while others are not. While some people use technology(ies) to help them hear, others do not. Whether technology(ies) are used, the languages leveraged (spoken and/or signed), in addition to other individual considerations, will impact how to approach a child. Be open to individual considerations, and do not hesitate to remind children to self-advocate for their needs.
The information contained on this site is intended for informational purposes to assist in providing a holistic picture of the way in which hearing loss may affect an individual. No two individuals are the same. Every experience is different. Some people may experience one, all, or none of the implications of hearing loss stated on this web site.
Please always do your homework. Local perceptions and culture around hearing loss vary widely. Norms around the language used to describe hearing loss also varies by locale. In some places, it is insulting to see the phrase, "hearing impairment," whereas in other places, it is the accepted norm. In some places, it is more acceptable to use the phrase, "hearing loss," while in other places, that phrase is found to be confusing, especially when the condition is present from birth.
My home location is Toronto, Ontario, and the information compiled here, and how it is presented, is directly impacted by 1. My family's own personal values and experience with hearing loss, 2. The culture of hearing loss in the place in which we live.
If you are a family, please let your experience guide your needs and if you are an educator or professional, please allow the child in front of you to guide how you support them. And, always do additional homework. :)
In support of our children,
Stephanie
The information contained on this site is intended for informational purposes to assist in providing a holistic picture of the way in which hearing loss may affect an individual. No two individuals are the same. Every experience is different. Some people may experience one, all, or none of the implications of hearing loss stated on this web site.
Please always do your homework. Local perceptions and culture around hearing loss vary widely. Norms around the language used to describe hearing loss also varies by locale. In some places, it is insulting to see the phrase, "hearing impairment," whereas in other places, it is the accepted norm. In some places, it is more acceptable to use the phrase, "hearing loss," while in other places, that phrase is found to be confusing, especially when the condition is present from birth.
My home location is Toronto, Ontario, and the information compiled here, and how it is presented, is directly impacted by 1. My family's own personal values and experience with hearing loss, 2. The culture of hearing loss in the place in which we live.
If you are a family, please let your experience guide your needs and if you are an educator or professional, please allow the child in front of you to guide how you support them. And, always do additional homework. :)
In support of our children,
Stephanie