Teaching Higher Order Thinking, Reading, and Analysis Skills to Teens with Auditory Processing Disorder: Games, Activities, and Resources

Creating a conducive learning environment for teens with auditory processing disorder (APD) is crucial for their academic success and overall development. This disorder can make it challenging for students to understand, remember, and process auditory information. However, with targeted interventions, games, and activities, educators can help these students develop higher order thinking, reading, and analysis skills. This article explores effective resources and methods to support teens with APD.

Early Intervention and Its Importance

There is a growing recognition of the significance of early intervention for children with receptive listening deficits. The critical period for language acquisition may end by the tenth or eleventh year, making it essential to address these issues early. This is especially true for teens with APD, who may have unique challenges in processing auditory information. Understanding this critical period helps educators and caregivers to focus on targeted interventions that can have long-lasting benefits.

Popular Resources for Therapists and Teachers

Several publishers and organizations offer materials tailored for speech-language pathologists (SLPs) and teachers working with school-age children. These resources can be instrumental in supporting teens with APD. Here are some recommended materials:

The Auditory Processing Game: By Kelly Malone, Karen Stontz, and Barb Truman

This game is designed to enhance auditory processing skills through interactive gameplay. It is an engaging way to help teens with APD improve their ability to pay attention to and process auditory information.

The Listening Comprehension Test Adolescent: By Linda Bowers, Rosemary Huisingh, and Carolyn LoGiudice

This test provides a comprehensive evaluation of listening comprehension skills in adolescents. It can help educators tailor their teaching methods to meet the specific needs of teens with APD.

Spotlight on Reading: Listening Comprehension Level 2: 6-Book Set: By Paul F. Johnson and Carolyn LoGiudice

This multi-level reading comprehension set includes a series of books designed to cater to different reading levels. The books are accompanied by tests and activities to help teens develop their reading and listening skills.

TACL-4 Test for Auditory Comprehension of Language: Fourth Edition: By Elizabeth Carrow-Woolfolk

The fourth edition of this test offers a comprehensive assessment of auditory comprehension skills in a variety of contexts. It is a valuable tool for identifying areas of strength and weakness in teens with APD, enabling targeted intervention strategies.

Games and Activities for Students

In addition to specialized resources, games and activities can be incredibly effective in helping teens with APD develop higher order thinking, reading, and analysis skills. Here are some examples:

Simon Says and Red Light, Green Light

Play these classic games to help teens improve their auditory processing skills. Simon Says encourages active listening and following instructions, while Red Light, Green Light requires sustained attention and the ability to remember and anticipate instructions.

This Old Man Songs and Rhymes

Engage teens by teaching them songs and rhymes, like "This Old Man." These activities involve listening, remembering, and sequencing information, which can enhance auditory processing and working memory skills.

Conclusion

While resources for teens with APD are limited, there is significant potential for improvement through targeted interventions. By leveraging games, activities, and specialized resources, educators and caregivers can help these students develop essential higher order thinking, reading, and analysis skills. Early intervention and consistent practice are key to ensuring long-term success.