Helpful Tips for Parents and Teachers
Children with Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) are often very intelligent but have auditory barriers that affect some aspects of learning. Some children are good at compensating for their auditory weaknesses but standardized testing often reveals a significant discrepancy between verbal and performance measures.
Children diagnosed with APD may benefit from intensive, short-term training programs. Some of these programs only address sensory issues while others address sensory-motor deficiencies. Here are some tips to enhance speech understanding, when talking to a child suspected of having APD:
- Be sure the child is seated where he/she will best hear and see the speaker.
- Call the child’s name and make eye contact before speaking. Lip-reading is a critical skill for these kids (also be sure to have eyes checked for visual acuity; tests for visual processing may also be needed).
- Reduce extraneous background noise when saying something important.
- Emphasize key points by using tag words (e.g. before, after, first, last, this, that)
- Rephrase speech information that was misunderstood. Keep it simple and to the point.
- Check comprehension by having the child repeat or rephrase what he/she heard.
- Give visual cues or written information to supplement listening when possible.
- Use a multi-sensory, hands-on approach to learning
- Give frequent breaks when long periods of listening are required.
- Lectures and class discussions should take place in the morning with seatwork in the afternoon.
Recent studies in brain research have suggested that intensive activities to help strengthen brain pathways can improve learning potential. Ultimately, treatment plans require a team effort that includes parents, therapists, physicians and other professionals looking at the “whole” child and collaborating to make a difference.
For more information regarding Auditory Processing Disorders and diagnostic treatment programs, contact:
Leah K. Light, Au.D
Brainchild Institute
4350 Sheridan Street, Suite 101
Hollywood, FL., 33021
E-mail: info@brainchildinstitute.com
(954) 987-8887
MNRI program at the Brainchild Institute
Anna P.
I have seen fine motor, gross motor, and cognitive improvements in my eight year old son after completing an MNRI program at the Brainchild Institute. He understands more and is more aware of his environment. His balance and coordination have become much better.
MNRI program at Brainchild Institute
My seven year old daughter completed an MNRI program at Brainchild Institute. she has become so much more independent. Her productivity at school has increased, and her social skills have also improved. She is no longer afraid to walk to her classroom alone and feels more secure of herself.
MNRI and Interactive Metronome
Jessica C
My six year old, Aspen, did MNRI and Interactive Metronome at Brainchild Institute. She has gone from being a distracted, disinterested student that was supposed to repeat kindergarten, to a happy, engaged 1st grader in the accelerated reading program in less than one year. The Brainchild Institute staff is always understanding, supportive, and informative.
MNRI at Brainchild Institute
My seven year old daughter completed an MNRI program at the Brainchild Institute. She has become so much more independent.
The MNRI at Brainchild Institute
I am not sure where we would be if we had not travelled from Georgia to Florida to work with Dr. Light and her team.
Masgutova Method at Brainchild Institute
Reflecting on all that I'm thankful for this week, it was hard not to think of our time receiving services at the Brainchild Institute.
Completed Masgutova Method program at Brainchild Institute
– Amy Janeiro
I thought I would share a HUGE win with you all as you have been instrumental in Johnny’s (our family’s) journey. Johnny has had struggles since our move to Texas and in his new school.
BrainwoRx Camp
Susanna S.
BrainwoRx camp has been a life changing experience for my son. In this brief period of time there he has become more confident
Brain Boosters
Erick & Genesis Almonte
Reflecting on all that I'm thankful for this week, it was hard not to think of our time receiving services at the Brainchild Institute.
Amy Janeiro
As you can imagine, Johnny is beaming. He is confident and proud. He has friends and is just one of the crowd in the best way possible but ever still “Johnny.”
Forever grateful, SLinna – “Ethan’s Mom
@robert28_broot
There is a light in all of this and there is hope and help for families like us. Dr. Light gave us hope and that is why I made sure...