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5 Tips to Help Your Deaf or Hard of Hearing Child Enjoy the Holidays
by Paula Rosenthal, J.D.

Holidays are often a difficult time for people with hearing loss, especially young children who have not yet learned or become proficient at coping skills. Large gatherings, music and the rapid pace of activities all contribute to isolating those who have difficulty hearing. With Thanksgiving, Christmas, Chanukah, Kwanzaa and New Year’s all coming up soon it is important to take steps to ensure your child isn’t left out of the fun and excitement. Below are some simple ways to encourage your child’s participation and help him enjoy this special time of year.

Include Your Child in the Planning

Everyone likes to feel important. If your child is old enough, let him help you make the guest list, plan the menu, bake some holiday foods, decorate the house, go gift shopping, etc. Including your child in the holiday planning will bolster his self-esteem as well as create a wonderful, family tradition.

Arrange Strategic Seating Assignments

Make table arrangements with your child in mind. If you’re not sure where to seat your child in the dining room, experiment beforehand. Can you use round tables instead of rectangular ones so your child can see everyone’s faces? Is there a seat away from the bustling kitchen and far from any music speakers that would be best? Don’t seat your child next to or right near boisterous party participants. Is there a responsible family member or friend you can seat your child next to who is willing to repeat jokes and toasts your child may miss? Make sure this person is someone your child easily understands. People with accents, mumblers, soft talkers and guests who talk with food in their mouths are not ideal candidates.

Consider Using an FM Listening Device

If your child uses an FM listening device at school or at home, consider using it during the holidays. Make sure it is charged and have it handy so that you can quickly give the microphone to anyone making a speech or toast. Placing the microphone in the center of the table can help your child pick up more table conversation as well. If your child is resistant to having you do this, you can experiment before guests arrive and discreetly place the microphone in the centerpiece arrangement.


Keep the Music Down

Your child isn’t the only one who will have difficulty hearing with music in the background. Many people have mild (and sometimes undetected) hearing loss that doesn’t affect them until there is music or a lot of chatter in the background. Consider foregoing the holiday music or keep it at a very soft volume so that all your guests can enjoy themselves.


Develop a Signal

In a large group, your child may not want to attract attention by asking for repeats or verbally letting you know they feel left out. Consider developing a special signal that only you, your spouse and your child know. When your child makes the signal you’ll be aware that he missed what was said or that he would like to talk to you privately, whatever you have arranged for the signal to mean. This allows your child to comfortably notify you that he is having difficulty. You’ll be able to remedy the problem immediately, rather