Just found out your child is deaf or hard of hearing ?
Finding out your child is deaf or hard of hearing can bring many feelings. You might be unsure, worried, or confused about what to do next. You are not alone. Many families feel the same way at the start, and there is a lot of support available.
This page brings together simple guides that explain early steps, hearing tests, communication options, early intervention, and the people who can support your family. You can begin anywhere. Every small step helps.
Just click on any one of the subjects listed below to take you to more information.
That important first step for you and your family to consider is to connect with one of our Parent Mentors. When your child is newly diagnosed as deaf or hard of hearing, it can be difficult to know where to turn. OurDeaf Children Australia’s Parent Mentor Program connects you with a Parent Mentor, who is another parent who has already been there, understands what you are going through, and can walk beside you with empathy, knowledge and hope.
Understanding the diagnosis
Learn what a diagnosis means and what you can expect in the early days.
Just Found Out Your Child is Deaf or Hard of Hearing?
First Diagnosis? Here Are Some Tips on What to do Next
Hearing Tests – What to Expect, What to Look Out For
About Hearing Loss – A Summary
Causes of Deafness – A Summary
Early support and intervention
Early support can make a big difference for your child’s learning and communication. These guides explain the first steps and where to find help.
Early Childhood Development – Building Foundations
Early Childhood Intervention Can Make a Difference
Early Intervention is a Great Way to Start
Who Do I Need In My Support Team?
Communication and connecting as a family
Explore language options, early signing, and simple ways to communicate together at home.
Early Signing – Hints, Links and More
Communication in the Family…Some Tips To Help
About Assistive Listening Devices
Hearing Aids – A Brief Summary
Understanding professionals and services
Learn who supports your child and what each professional does.
What Do Early Intervention Specialists Do?
What Does A Speech Pathologist Do?
What Does Early Education Mean?
Supporting your child’s development and wellbeing
Guides that help you understand what comes next and how to support your child as they grow.
My Child is Deaf and Has Additional Needs
Starting to think about education
Simple guides to help you feel prepared when you begin exploring school pathways and communication with teachers.
