Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)
Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) affects how the brain interprets sounds, not hearing itself. People with APD hear normally but struggle to understand speech, especially in noisy settings. Early diagnosis and support can significantly improve learning and communication.
April 4th is ADP Awareness Day
Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) awareness day is on April 4th each year. The Hearing Health Foundation marks this day to highlight the challenges and effects of living with APD.
What is Auditory Process Disorder?
Auditory Processing Disorder (APD), also called central auditory processing disorder (CAPD), affects how the brain interprets sounds, not how the ears hear them. People with APD can hear well but struggle to understand speech, especially in noisy environments. This disconnect between the ears and the brain can impact learning and communication. Early diagnosis and support strategies are key to helping children with APD thrive at home and in school.
Educational Tips
Communication
- Ask the student close-ended (e.g., yes or no) questions rather than open-ended questions.
- Ask the student opinion questions rather than questions requiring a particular answer.
- Call on the student for answers on topics about which they are knowledgeable or confident.
- Refrain from calling on a student who visibly appears to be experiencing anxiety symptoms.
Tasks and Assignments
- Provide students with an individual study area.
- Allow the student to use headphones, earphones, earplugs, etc., to block out background noise.
- Provide the student extra time to make in-class transitions from one activity to another.
- Use a timer or other auditory device to signal that it’s time to start a different task or make another transition.
- Try to keep classroom routines as predictable as possible without sudden changes. Whenever possible, plan in advance for transitions that will occur.
- Consider modifying the ways class directions/instructions are given:
- Give directions that are concise rather than long and wordy.
- Provide visual aids accompanying verbal directions/instructions (e.g., write them on the board).
- Capture students’ attention before giving directions by telling them they must listen to instructions about what will be given.
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