Chapter 9
Learning to use
a spoken language
105
Children who can hear the differences between many words or who
became deaf after they learned to speak may be able to use a spoken
language.
Most deaf children talk differently from children who can hear. People
who do not know a particular deaf child well often have difficulty
understanding her speech. If you use a spoken language with your child,
she will need extra help as she learns to read lips and speak clearly. You
will get better results if you and your child enjoy learning words and
language together. Remember, everyone in the home will have to talk to
your child as much as possible.
First, a child will begin to understand words that other people use.
Then your child will begin to use words for people and things she sees
every day that are important to her. Later she will learn many different
kinds of words. This will help your child learn to speak in sentences. See
Chapter 3 for guidelines on how to teach your child language.
How to get your child’s attention
Your child needs to see your lips move to be able to understand your
words. Be sure she is looking at you when you talk to her.
If your child responds to her name, use it to get her attention. If she
does not respond, try tapping the floor with your foot, so she feels the
vibration.
Nadia?
Nadia, are you
having tea? Can I
have some tea?