Pediatric hearing aids are designed to help children with mild to moderate hearing loss in the high-frequency range (1000-6000 Hz). They are generally effective in assisting children in understanding speech. They are available as ‘open fit’ aids (batteries not inserted), behind-the-ear aids, in-ear aids, and receiver-in-canal aids. Because of their size, pediatric hearing aids are often more discreet and less visible than adult hearing aids. Unlike adult hearing aids, pediatric hearing aids are small and lightweight, but these little things can do wonders for your child.
Here are the top reasons you should invest in pediatric hearing aids for your child.
1. Helps Children Learn Faster
Research indicates that better “auditory learning” will help children’s overall language and communication development. A study measured the skills of children with hearing loss who had hearing aids compared to those who did not. It was found that children with hearing aids did better in all areas of communication.
2. Helps Children Talk and Listen Better
Hearing aids are often the first treatment for children with hearing loss. Hearing aids help children talk and listen by boosting sounds, particularly in the high-frequency range, where most sounds that carry human speech are received. As a result, your child will be able to hear better and will be able to learn to do all those cute things that children do: babbling, cooing, playing, laughing, and communicating!
3. Boosts Self-Confidence
Children with hearing loss often experience self-esteem problems. Their self-esteem is often an extension of their communication skills, so children with hearing loss generally experience self-esteem problems. It is not uncommon for children to become withdrawn and isolate themselves. A hearing aid can make a world of difference when it comes to self-esteem.
4. Can Isolate Excessive Sounds
Hearing aids can help to optimize and manage sounds that are not wanted. Hearing aids can help to filter out specific sounds and can even provide a “sound boost” to a specific sound category. Your audiologist can customize your child’s hearing aids to one that works best for them.
5. Designed for Children’s Handling
Children are rough on things, and their hearing aids are no exception. Technology has advanced tremendously in recent years, and today’s hearing aids can withstand a lot of wear and tear. You will also find that most hearing aids are moisture-resistant, meaning sweat and rain won’t be a problem.
6. Stays Secure in the Hands of Children
Most pediatric hearing aids come with various programs that parents can choose from. All hearing aids come with a lock-out feature which is a great way to prevent your child from tampering with their hearing aids. Some children may take their hearing aids out to play with them, or they may drop them. Having a lock-out feature is a great way to prevent your child from causing permanent damage.
Conclusion
“Quality of life” is a general term that is used by the medical community to assess the impact of medical or health conditions on the everyday lives of people who have them. In the case of children with hearing loss, early diagnosis and treatment of the condition can greatly improve the child’s quality of life. If you suspect that your child may have hearing loss, take them to a hearing healthcare professional who can diagnose and manage their condition. After all, your child’s quality of life depends on it!
Fit your child with the hearing aid that’s right for them! At Hear More Associates, we understand that there is no “one size fits all” approach when it comes to hearing aids, so let’s work together in finding your child the perfect fit. We serve Lexington, Greater Boston, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island.
