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Recent Questions & Answers

Section 504, Differs from IEP

My daughter was recently deemed eligible for a Section 504 plan. What does that mean? Is this different from an IEP?

Not all students with cochlear implants are eligible for an Individualized Education Plan, or IEP. Section 504 plans are similar to IEPs in that they ensure that accommodations for your daughter will be implemented, for example, the school's purchase and use of an FM system in the classroom. In both instances a team of professionals will meet to discuss your daughter's strengths and challenges, and make determinations based on their assessment.

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Stalling, Not Progressing

My child (who has a cochlear implant) started kindergarten five months ago. Initially he was doing really well, learning the alphabet and the sounds that different letters make. But recently I noticed that he seems to be stalling rather than progressing, as he had been. Could there be a problem with his implant? Or is something else the cause?

All children progress at different rates. If you suspect a technical problem with the implant that isn't obvious after conducting a sound test or changing the batteries, bring your son to his audiologist. It's possible that his program map needs adjustment.

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Distracted Kindergartener

I am a kindergarten teacher of a child with a cochlear implant. Yesterday and today the child has seemed distracted and he does not always respond when I talk to him. I think there might be a problem with his implant, but I'm not sure. How can I tell?

The best way to determine if the implant is working is to conduct a sound test. If you are unfamiliar with a sound test, Google "Ling Six Sound Test", or click on the "Conducting a sound test" information sheet link below. A sound test will let you know if the implant is functioning or not. 

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