Are you a parent of a deaf child?
Do you suspect that your child may be deaf?
If so, contact our service - we can provide support services to you, your child & your family.
Do you think your child needs a hearing test?
- If yes, we can put you in touch with a number of agencies that carry out hearing tests.
- If you are not sure, come along to our Kerrydeaf Resource Centre & chat to us about any concerns you may have- we can put you in touch with services that can support you.
If your child is deaf - what do you do next? We will do our best to support you, your child & your family. When you are ready & or want to - we can put you in touch with other parents who have gone through a similar experience. We can also introduce your child to other deaf children. We can introduce you to Deaf adults.
How will I communicate with my child? We will give you information & support on communicating with a deaf child. We will put you in touch with other professionals who can give you information on language - whether it is
sign language or speech.
Is there any grant that will help with any additional costs that I may have with a deaf child? Yes, there is a grant called the Domicillary Care Allowance, it is paid to parents of a child with a disability. We have the forms in our office & will assist you in applying for this grant, which is paid monthly.
What about schools for deaf children? We have information on schools in Kerry & nationally. We can also give you information on the visiting teacher service for deaf children.
What activities are available for parents of deaf children? We have a monthly get-together for deaf children & their hearing siblings - we bring them bowling & to adventure play centres. This gives parents a chance to meet with Deaf & hearing parents of deaf children.
We also have a day trip in the summer & a Christmas party - this gives parents & children a chance to meet other people for fun & laughter. It is also an opportunity to learn about things that are relevant to parents & to deaf children.
