Saturday, March 15, 2008



The author, Paul Madaule, describes what he learned about hearing from Dr. Alfred Tomatis and shows how to use the Tomatis Method and "Earobics."

Growing up, Madaule had dyslexia, learning disabilities, "inhibition, temper tantrums, absent-mindedness, fits of anxiety, extreme shyness, sleepless nights, difficulty expressing himself, fear of the future and clumsiness." Tomatis showed him that all of these ailments were all due to his inability to hear properly. Madaule explains how "sound confusion put him "off track" creating a misunderstanding. A distorted perception of words, in turn, affected his understanding of the world."

The book is easy to read and the material is comprehensive. Madaule gives relatable examples and helpful suggestions throughout. He touches on the ear itself, the ears connection to the brain and body, the vestibular system and how to correct hearing disorders. Music, sound and movement, chanting, learning a new language are amongst the topics explained from Dr. Tomati's perspective.

Dr. Tomatis's methods have proven effective as non-invasive treatment for children with autism, ADHD, cerebral palsy, and other special needs due to auditory processing disorders.

Madaule begins his story as a student, morphing into a celebrated teacher. This book is wonderful and useful.

The book is split into two parts, Listening Unveiled and Listening Through Life.

Some chapters are:
Listening for Preschoolers, Listening at School, Teenage Listening, Multiple Listening of the Adult, No Retirement for Listening.

I highly recommend this book for parents and teachers, people suffering from dyslexia or any of the above listed disorders, and anyone who wants to increase their ability to communicate.