How an Educational Audiologist Can Help Your Hearing-Impaired Child
As a parent or caregiver, you want the very best for your child and to see them happy in life. Now that a new school year is beginning, it is vital to make sure your child is set up for a successful year of school. As you cross things off your back-to-school to-do lists such as haircuts, new clothes, and doctor’s appointments, make sure you find the services of an educational audiologist for your hearing-impaired child.
Educational Audiologist – What They Do
Education Audiologists (EdAud) are hearing professionals who work with hearing-impaired children to make sure they receive the best support in the classroom. They make recommendations, as needed, to make sure children with hearing loss can reach their maximum potential. Suggestions might include things such as acoustic modifications, adding hearing assistive technology to the classroom, and counseling parents and teachers about your child’s specific hearing loss.
Most educational audiologists are part of a team that helps develop the Individualized Education Program (IEP) for the child. Once the plan is complete, the educational audiologist can add hearing assistive technology (HAT) to the child, which enables the child to access the curriculum.
Tips for Acquiring an Educational Audiologist
As the parent or caregiver of a hearing-impaired child, you are the biggest advocate. If you don’t speak up, then things won’t get done to help your child be successful in school. Education audiology is a service listed under the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA), which means your child is authorized to get the services of an educational audiologist.
Always review your child’s IED at the beginning of the school year. Make sure educational audiology is included in your child’s IEP.
If there isn’t an educational audiologist employed at your school district, ask around to find one. Many times, they work at hospitals, universities, or a school for the deaf. Ask if there is an educational audiologist employed in another school district and if they are willing to share their services. The important thing is to ensure the person is licensed in your state.
If your school denies the services and you feel that it is in your child’s best interest academically, don’t give up. Continue to pursue the issue until you get what your child needs.
Next Steps After You Begin Working with an Educational Audiologist
Once your child has begun to work with an educational audiologist, make sure to keep in touch regularly. Communication will help you stay informed with your child’s progress in school, as well as any physical or social developments that arise. You can also find out things you can do at home to help you support your child academically, socially, and emotionally. The more you stay in contact with the educational audiologist working with your child, the more your child will succeed.
If you are concerned that your child doesn't hear as well, contact Sound Hearing Care at 864-881-1663 to schedule a hearing exam. We have four convenient locations, including Simpsonville, Greer, Travelers Rest, and Greenville.