Suggestions for Teachers
Remember that students with Central Auditory Processing Disorder are just as eager
to learn as other students. However, they may become frustrated since learning
is a chore instead of an exciting experience. Therefore, teachers can make the learning
experience more pleasurable by providing the following strategies:
1. Settle for limited success by praising any accomplishment that represents
improvement. It is not helpful to demand performance comparable with average children.
2. Reduce motor activities during the communication process. That is, reduce the number of
written responses you require and avoid asking the child to listen and write at the same time.
3. Move into areas of new academic interest by gradual transition, reviewing known
material first, so that the child can experience some degree of success.
4. Keep extensive instructional periods as short as possible with as many breaks
as possible. Alternate difficult listening activities with individual study periods or less
stressful activities.
5. When possible record lessons or instructions on tape so that the child can hear the material
again at a later time.
6. Make sure you have the child's attention before giving directions. Speak slowly
and clearly, but, do not over exaggerate speech. Use simple, brief directions.
7. Avoid auditory fatigue by scheduling difficult listening activities early in the day.
Allow the child sufficient time to respond and complete the work.
8. Check the child's comprehension by asking questions or asking for a brief
summary after key ideas have been presented to be sure the child understands.
9. Provide the child with a "listening buddy" who can answer the child's questions
quietly.
10. Most important, try to minimize noise levels within the classroom. Use sound
absorbing materials when possible. If extraneous noise cannot be reduced or
eliminated, select seating for the child away from auditory distractions to help the child
focus and maintain attention.