Most adults think that childhood is the greatest time of all and the best years of one's life. Most children, on the other hand, say that it is tough to be a child. Children, who are born with a hearing loss or acquire a hearing loss while growing up, may experience their childhood to be even tougher.

The good news is that you, as a parent, can do a lot to help your child and make his or her life easier. A hearing loss needs not limit your child's ability to communicate, socialize, learn, and experience all the joys and possibilities life has to offer. Besides, hearing instruments today are so advanced that even children with profound hearing loss can benefit from using them.

It is important though, to remember that all children - with or without hearing loss - develop differently. Every child is unique and every child reacts individually. So much depends on the degree of your child's hearing loss that it is valuable to learn everything you possibly can about your child's particular situation.

The subject of raising a child with hearing loss is complex, and there is no such thing as one right answer or one right way to act. But if you get a greater understanding of the challenges your child faces, you will also learn how you can best help and support your child.

It is common for many parents to believe that hearing aids will restore their child’s hearing to a normal level. However, hearing aids do not restore your child’s hearing, but they help substantially to improve you child's communication and quality of life.

Even when wearing hearing aids your child remains hearing impaired. Family, friends, and relatives need to adjust to your child’s hearing impairment, as well as the child himself.

The more you get involved in your child's situation the better. As soon as you have any doubts, concerns, or questions don't hesitate to ask teachers, audiologists and other professionals. They will do their utmost to help and support you.

Most of all, love, accept and encourage your child. This is the best advice we can give. Praise your child when he or she does something well. Smile at your child often, because a smile means much more to a child with a hearing loss. Pay attention when your child wants to share something with you, even small things. Read bedtime stories, provide physical activities and sing songs. These are loving and caring activities, which stimulate and make your child feel at ease and confident.