Auditory processing disorder -- APD -- affects the way the brain receives electrical messages from the inner ear. The difficulty is not in the range of hearing but with processing the word and interpreting the meaning. APD is found in 5 percent of all school-age children, according to KidsHealth. Retaining information is often a problem for people with APD. Since children with auditory processing disorder do not always identify words correctly, you must take steps to improve their skills and increase their memory retention.
Step 1
Reduce the background noise in your child's classroom. APD affects interpretation so multiple sounds can be confusing. Special speakers or hearing aides can also help filter out background noise.
Step 2
Present as much information as possible in printed format. APD does not hinder the way a child interprets the written word. It would be helpful to provide lectures and class notes that a child can follow while listening to a presentation.
Step 3
Write out lists and instructions for your child to carry with her. Telling her how to do something may not be enough. She will remember better if she can read and hear instructions. Leave notes around the house as reminders of schedules and other information.
Step 4
Speak slowly and keep your sentences short when possible. Have your child repeat what you said back to you. This will help him remember what was said and confirm that he heard it correctly.
Step 5
Maintain a regular daily schedule. Routines with few fluctuations will help your child stay on track each day.
Tips and Warnings
- Ask you child's teacher if she can record class lectures. This will allow her to listen again when doing homework and give you a reference if she needs help.
- Children with APD have difficulty focusing. Set up a study area that is free from distractions.
References
- American Speech-Language-Hearing Association: Understanding Auditory Processing Disorders in Children; Teri James Bellis, Ph.D., CCC-A
- KidsHealth: Auditory Processing Disorder; January 2011
- National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders: Auditory Processing Disorder in Children
- Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board: Using Memory Enhancement Techniques (PDF)
