How to Make Listening Easier at Home

As you can see, normal conversation levels are somewhere between 50-65 dB at a distance of three feet. For a child with hearing loss, that same conversation decreases in clarity and intensity when there are competing sounds present. Try to imagine what it’s like for your child when they’re trying to process language that’s mixed with sounds in the home that are louder than the normal conversation level.

Help Your Child Hear Better at Home

Did you know the subtle background noises around your home can make it difficult for your child with hearing loss to learn how to listen and talk? You might be used to those background noises, but they can actually make it harder for your baby to hear important words and sounds. 

There are simple changes you can make to minimize noise and make listening easier. A quiet home is the best environment for your baby to hear you and the important language you share with them. Here are some ideas to help your child hear best at home. 

Quality Counts

A quiet environment improves the LSL experience. Take advantage of quieter times of the day to foster meaningful interactions like feeding time or when you’re changing their diaper.

Know Your Home

Take notice of your home routines and their noise levels, especially during times of the day when your child is alert, active, and ready to listen. Consider running the dishwasher in the middle of the night, and try to wash clothes or vacuum after your child’s bedtime. You can also download a Sound Meter Level app to calculate noise levels of specific areas of the house.

Turn Off and Tune In

Turn off the radio or TV when it’s not being listened to or watched. Avoid background noise like music when playing or sharing books with your child. If you can’t turn it off, try finding a quieter space for play or reading time.

Make Listening Easier at Home

Our homes can be noisy places! Become aware of all the background noise in your home and try to reduce them as much as possible. Placing carpets or area rugs over hard flooring, and using more cushions, curtains, and wall coverings can help absorb noise.

Remember, when it comes to making an LSL-friendly house, the less noise the better! Watch the video below for more on the LSL strategy Make Listening Easier. 

Do THIS to Improve Your Little One’s Listening Abilities