It can be difficult to hear and concentrate in a noisy area such as a classroom (with lots of children talking) or home (with tv on), even with only a small amount of hearing loss. These suggestions will help all children listen better.

• Help children hear and understand your speech–
• Get within three feet of a child before speaking.
• Get your child’s attention before speaking.
• Face your child and speak clearly with a normal tone and normal loudness.
• Use visual cues such as moving your hands and showing pictures in addition to using speech.
• Seat your child near adults and children who are speaking.
• Speak clearly and repeat important words, but use natural speaking tones and pattern.
• Check often to make sure your child understands what is said.
• Stand still when talking to your child to decrease distractions.

Decrease background noise, especially for children with hearing loss–

• Turn off unnecessary music and tv in the background.
• Fix noisy appliances such as heaters or air conditioners.
• Limit play with noisy toys.
• Encourage teachers to create quiet areas. For example, use dividers for small group play and reading.
• Close windows and doors when it is noisy outside.