How should a teacher communicate with a child with glue ear?
Tips for teachers who have children with glue ear in their class If you think a child may have a hearing problem: • Seat the child where (s)he has an unobstructed view of your face and can hear you most clearly. • Avoid speaking when facing the blackboard or with your back to the child. • Ensure the light is on your face, and avoid standing in front of windows, as this makes lipreading difficult. • If telling stories, or if you are sitting in a group, make sure you are at eye level and in good light. • Ensure the child is watching you when you begin to speak, and try to give visual or oral clues if you are changing to a new topic. • If you are speaking directly to the child, gain their attention by calling their name first. • Speak clearly and at a steady pace. Do not shout. • Avoid walking around the classroom when speaking. A child with hearing difficulties will have to twist in their chair to keep you in clear sight. • Try to reduce the general level of background noise in the class
