Audiologist assists children

Audiologist and speech therapist Koti Magedi offers a reading and writing programme as a form of remedial therapy for the children she assists with speech, reading and writing problems.

“I noticed that the children who are referred to me for assessment also have a problem with reading and writing. This leads them to withdraw from class and not participate. Some children cannot identify the letters of the alphabet and consequently cannot read fluently, not because they are unable but because they start doubting themselves.”

She also understands that for parents to teach their own children is not an easy feat, as they often have their own expectations of their children’s capabilities, and if their children struggle, they often become impatient.

“Parents need the extra help and that’s where I step in,” she said.

She explained that when parents reach out to her, she first assesses the child.

“Thereafter, I would engage with the child’s teacher to find out what challenges he or she experiences in class. I use a triangle approach with me, the school and the parents, and the child is in the middle. All of us must speak the same language so that we can help the child,” she said.

The job comes with some challenges too, she added.

“As much as I am helping children, I am also helping the parents. I often have to console parents who fear that their children won’t reach their milestones. Other times, I have to be strict with parents who are in denial. The signs are often there, but parents tend to overlook them because it is not what they want to hear about their children. It is human nature to become defensive while if we identify a challenge early on, it can be treated in time.”

She added that she has successfully assisted many children, but most often in cases where she receives active participation and involvement from parents. “I am passionate about seeing results. It is for this reason that I don’t see children after school, because they are too tired for the programme to yield results. I pursue progress, and therefore my sessions are held in the mornings so children can come with a fresh mind.