Article and examples of instruction sheets - batod

When are Listening Boxes used
Listening Boxes are particularly useful at early stages of development, to demonstrate to
parents how to work with their child on listening skills. Each Box has a specific reference to a
listening stage:
• auditory detection (knowing there is sound present);
• auditory discrimination (knowing that there are different types of sound);
• identification (knowing what the sound represents eg doorbell);
• comprehension (knowing that words/sounds have meaning and acting on that).
The activities are used to reinforce listening skills on a 1:1 basis whilst integrating
meaningful concepts in a fun way.
How are they used
A simple step-by-step laminated instruction sheet is included on how to use the Listening
Boxes. The specific purpose and goals for the box are on the front. From the front of the box,
parents and professionals can quickly and easily see the specific listening intent of each box.
A box developed to encourage auditory detection may simply have 'responding to sound'
and 'turn taking' as its specific goals. The box may only contain a drum and a ball with
instructions on how these may be used to develop the skill of auditory detection. The advice
may include;
a. banging the drum while encouraging the child to 'listen';
b. soft and loud banging;
c. marching to the beat of the drum;
d. playing the 'Wake Up' game - taking turns to be asleep and waking up when the
drum is banged;
e. throwing the ball when they hear the beat of the drum;
f. playing a simple hide and seek game with the drum.
A more complex Listening Box may involve developing the skills of auditory identification or
comprehension, including activities in, for example, auditory selection, turn-taking, auditory
memory, singing, role play and language building.
A 'loan card' system ensures a record of who has borrowed the box and the date of return.
Conclusion
It is fun collecting items and making Listening Boxes and the production reaps rewards and
good feedback from both the children and their parents. The boxes are widely used and they
are an invaluable tool in assisting parents in the development of their children's listening.