An invaluable resource for parents of deaf and hard of hearing children
When a parent first discovers their child has a hearing loss, the first question they usually ask themselves is, 'Will my child ever lead a normal life?'
Breaking the Sound Barriers
is an extraordinary collection of real life stories and candid interviews with nine families of deaf and hard of hearing children and deaf adults as they explore their struggles and successes in navigating the world of hearing loss. Five incredible parents of deaf children reveal what has worked and what didn't in raising a hard of hearing child. Four courageous deaf and hard of hearing adults reveal what it is really like living in a hearing oriented world and disclose strategies that have helped them in their own lives. A must read for anyone interested in learning about deaf culture and the world of hearing loss. Packed with invaluable insights, tips and advice for parents and professionals involved with deaf and hard of hearing children. -Discover that deaf and hard of hearing children can BE, DO and HAVE anything they want in this world. -Feel less alone in your journey of raising your deaf or hard of hearing child. -Get a candid insight into the world of deafness - the tears and the joys. -Connect with, and learn from, those who have travelled a similar path so that you may become the best parent you can be to your child. -Gain specific strategies others have used to tackle barriers related to early intervention services, education, communication within the family and in the community, employment and adulthood. -Get a wealth of practical advice about navigating the highs and lows, drawing out the best in your deaf child and keeping your child's self-esteem high. -Glean valuable tips and ideas from deaf adults as to what works and what doesn't with regard to being deaf in a hearing world.
Praise for
'My name is Janet and I have a little boy, Hugh who is deaf. I read the book cover to cover and found it absolutely fantastic - very inspirational and very reassuring, full of lots of practical information which I'm sure will be invaluable to us as we progress along our journey. It has certainly been the 'therapy' I needed.'
Janet, mother to Hugh
'Reading about what helped and hindered others with hearing loss has been invaluable in helping me raise my deaf daughter.'
Shona, mother of 8 year old deaf girl, Ava.
'This book proves that deaf people can achieve whatever they desire with the right support.'
Gavin, father of 2 year old Tom, deaf.
About the Author
Julie Postance is the author of
Breaking the Sound Barriers: 9 Deaf Success Stories
. Julie has spent 10 years working in communications for organisations supporting deaf and hard of hearing children. These organisations include Deaf Children Australia, the Victorian Deaf Education Institute and Aurora School for deaf and hard of hearing children. It was while working for Deaf Children Australia that she discovered the desperate need for a practical, hands on guide that would help hearing parents raise their deaf and hard of hearing children. Julie is the also the Directior of iinspire media, a company that has helped hundreds of creatives write, publish and launch their own books. She lives in Melbourne, Australia with her twin boys and furbaby.