Hearing loss is often associated with older age. However, people of any age can develop hearing loss, including children.
If your child has hearing loss, you are probably curious to learn about pediatric hearing aids and how they can help.
Pediatric Hearing Aid Basics
Pediatric hearing aids work to amplify sound and maximize listening ability in the same way that adult models do. However, because they are designed for children, they have a few features that are unique to them as well.
- Smaller size. Pediatric hearing aids are smaller and more compact than those for adults because children’s ears are smaller and shaped slightly differently.
- Bright and bold. Most adult models are all about being understated and close to invisible. Children’s hearing aids are usually bigger, brighter and louder. Children enjoy bright colors and fun designs that they can show off to their friends when playing at Danny Cunniff Park.
- Durability. Children, especially young children, aren’t always careful with their hearing aids, which is why manufacturers have built them to be a bit sturdier and more durable than adult models.
- Large LEDs. While adults and older children are able to tell when something is wrong with their hearing aids, younger children may not be aware or perhaps cannot vocalize that there is a problem. Having large, visible lights can let parents and teachers know whether or not hearing aids are working properly.
- Tamper-proof. Hearing aid batteries are small and can pose a potential choking hazard to young children. This is why pediatric models often come with a tamper-proof battery compartment to encourage safety.
- Style. While adults have a wide variety of hearing aid styles to choose from, behind-the-ear (BTE) models are the most commonly used for children with hearing loss. This is because the earmolds are soft, easy to clean, and simple to replace as your child grows.
Why It’s So Important To Treat Pediatric Hearing Loss
Pediatric hearing loss can cause children to experience delays in speech or language development. Left untreated, they may have difficulty learning to speak, read and communicate with others.
Hearing aids can help make it easier for them to process sounds similar to children with normal hearing. This helps them to do well in school and make friends with other kids.
For more information or to schedule an appointment for your child to see one of our specialists, call North Shore Audio-Vestibular Lab today.