Hearing loss and the angry child

Let's face it, if you  are a parent, you have encountered a child who has been angry or has had a tantrum at one time or the other. That's normal behavior, albeit annoying at times. 

However, think about your  child with hearing loss. Does he or she seem to tantrum more often than other children? Does he or she toss things? Does he or she hit? Does he or she not follow directions?

I am going to ask you to read this post when you are NOT going through one of the above situations, so you are more calm and level headed. 

Children with hearing loss often have difficulties communicating. They  can't always articulate their wants, needs or desires.  They can't always understand what you want from them and don't always understand your facial expressions until you get to the point of full out anger. These are  all  normal experiences that children with hearing loss go through. It is very frustrating at times for them. 

They don't understand or aren't able to express themselves right, and then  Mom or Dad get mad and they seriously are confused as to why they get in trouble.  

Work with your child.  Look at him or her when you are communicating so that  there is a clear path for information to flow, whether it is signed or spoken. Get your child's attention before you request something, so you are sure he or she truly can hear and understand. Stop what you are doing and pay attention when your child is requesting something. Encourage him or her to keep explaining  with gestures, more words, more signs,etc, if you are unsure-just don't say, 'oh, forget it.'

Most of all, give your  child and yourself time and space and allow the communication to grow and evolve. Don't punish, but rather try to figure out ways to improve communication and lessen frustration. If you are frustrated, I guarantee, your child is,too.