The Auditory-verbal approach embraces the view that children with hearing loss learn language most easily when actively engaged in relaxed, meaningful interactions with supportive parents and caregivers (Kretschmer & Kretschmer, 1978; Ling, 1990; Toss, 1990; Estabrooks, 1994). In auditory-verbal sessions, therefore, parents observe and actively participate to learn to:

• Model techniques for stimulating listening, speech, language, and communication
   activities at home;
• Plan strategies to integrate listening, speech, language and communication into daily
   routines and experiences;
• Communicate as partners in the therapy process;
• Inform the therapist of the child’s interests and abilities;
• Interpret the meaning of the child’s early communication;
• Develop appropriate behavior management techniques;
• Record and discuss progress;
• Interpret short-term and long-term goals;
• Develop confidence in parent-child interaction;
• Make informed decision;
• Advocate on behalf of their child