This digest provides an overview of the auditory-oral approach used for developing communication skills in children who are deaf or hard of hearing. The approach is based on the fundamental premise that acquiring competence in spoken language is a realistic goal for children who are deaf or hard of hearing and is best developed in an environment in which spoken communication is used exclusively in the home and the classroom. The digest includes information on: (1) the elements of the auditory-oral approach that are critical to its success, including parent involvement, appropriate amplification (hearing aids or cochlear implants), consistent quality speech training to develop speech production skills, developmentally appropriate language instruction, and a range of placement options; (2) the ability of most children with hearing loss to benefit from an auditory-oral approach; (3) the benefits of an auditory-oral approach, including being able to communicate directly with a wide variety of individuals; (4) the limitations of the auditory-oral approach, including problems of auditory functioning, language processing, and different learning styles; and (5) questions to ask before choosing a program or school, such as whether the school/program offers parent education and support and has a full range of placement options. (CR)