A national survey has revealed parents of deaf and hard of hearing (DHH) children, including those in Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay, have raised concerns over a “lack of deaf awareness in schools” that could be impacting their children’s learning outcomes and development.
The feedback was revealed in a survey conducted by Deaf Children Australia (DCA), where “inadequate learning support from teachers” and failure to meet learning outcomes in mainstream schools emerged as common concerns amongst the DHH community.
DCA said the lack of support at an educational level has flowed onto concerns around bullying (shared by 90% of parents surveyed), missing out on making friends (84%) and getting a good job (68%).
In an attempt to bridge the gap and build inclusivity within regional and rural communities, DCA is calling upon its schools, families and locals to provide insight into the challenges they face when including, communicating and understanding deaf and hard of hearing children.
DCA’s Head of Major Projects Sarah Brennan, said, “Limited skills and confidence about deaf awareness and creating deaf friendly environments can leave both parties vulnerable to numerous challenges.
“Not only does it create a communication barrier in the immediate term, but it can significantly impact a child’s learning and development as they progress through school.”
Schools, communities and families can complete DCA’s quick survey on the topic, as well as participate in a more in-depth, one-on-one interviews to further discuss their challenges and needs.
“With help from regional and rural primary schools, we can develop resources that will address their direct concerns and hopefully lead to a more inclusive, productive environment,” Ms Brennan said.
DCA said the survey will help build the resources’ content, which is set to assist provide resource support for primary schools and parents of DHH children.
To learn more about Deaf Children Australia visit www.deafchildrenaustralia.org.au/
