| Unilateral hearing loss |
| Q. What is Unilateral hearing loss? A. A unilateral hearing loss only affects one ear. The majority of children with a unilateral hearing loss manage very well in a hearing environment, however there are a few situations where they may find it more difficult to hear well enough. Q. What are the effects of unilateral hearing loss? A. Most children with a unilateral hearing loss develope clear speech. This is because one ear has normal levels of hearing. Although your child will hear well in most situations they may experience difficulties with the following: * hearing sounds or speech on the side of the ear with the hearing loss. * locating the source of the sound. * understanding speech when there is background noise. Q. How will my child cope at school? A. Most children manage well at school and their school work is usualy un-effected by their hearing loss. However, they may be more easily distracted or become easily tired due to the additional concentration required, particularly towards the end of the day. TIPS TO MAKE THINGS EASIER ON YOUR CHILD: * They should be seated so that they can see the teacher easily. * Your child should sit as near as posible to the front of the class room, with the ear that has normal hearing directed towards the teacher. * The teacher should be made aware of your childs hearing loss so that their school progress can be monitored closely. |
| As a unilateral hearing loss makes it difficult to tell what direction a sound is coming from it is important to teach your child to take extra care when crossing the road. When out cycling, rear-view mirrors on your child's bicycle can help them to notice when a car is behind them. |