Other parents of children who are deaf or hard of hearing will tell you that approaching matters with a positive attitude can set the stage for how professionals perceive you and interact with you. Don't walk in expecting a fight -- go in expecting the best. You will have enough battles to fight in the years to come without having to look for them. Learn to be assertive when you need to be, but don't walk through the door expecting a fight.
As my daughter grew and professionals got to know me better, a mutual respect developed. At first I found that I had to be much more assertive.
As time went on, we developed a comfortable working relationship and began to work much better as a team.
Over the years my wife and I have learned so many new things about raising children and education for children who are deaf or hard of hearing. However, we would not have learned what we have unless we were willing to admit that we didn't have all the answers.
We are so very thankful for the doctors, professionals, and teachers who took the time to explain everything.
Parents must share information with professionals to help them understand
their children better, but parents must
also listen and learn along the way.
Be assertive. Go with your gut and make yourself understood, but still be humble enough to see the perspective of the professionals and work together to meet the needs of your child.
