Hearing aids for children

Any child who has a hearing loss that may interfere with speech and language development or who has a loss that interferes with their classroom performance may need to wear a hearing aid. The first step in determining if a child needs a hearing aid is a complete hearing evaluation, which may include one or more tests.

If testing reveals that your child has a hearing loss, he will need to be evaluated by an otologist (physician specializing in medical and surgical treatment of ear disease). The otologist will determine if the loss can be treated medically or surgically and will look for other medical problems that may be related to the hearing loss. If the loss cannot be treated medically, your child may need to use a hearing aid.

Hearing aids are most commonly recommended for children with sensorineural (inner ear or nerve) hearing loss in both ears. However, children with other types of hearing loss may also benefit from a hearing aid.

At what age should a child receive a hearing aid?

No child is too young for a hearing aid. Even infants can be fitted with hearing aids. Early hearing aid use increases the chances that a hearing-impaired child will develop his listening and spoken language skills.

How does a hearing aid work?

A hearing aid is a device that amplifies sound. It consists of a microphone that picks up sound, an amplifier that makes sounds louder, and a speaker (receiver) that delivers the sound to the ear.

What are the procedures involved in obtaining a hearing aid for my child?

If it is determined that your child is a good candidate for a hearing aid, several appointments will be made for your child within the Department of Audiology.

First the audiologists will determine which hearing aid is best for your child. Another session will be scheduled for the actual fitting of the hearing aid. Instruction regarding the proper care, use and maintenance of hearing aids will be discussed with you and your child during the fitting. Periodic re-evaluations will be necessary to ensure that you child is benefiting from the aid.

How can I learn more about my child's need for a hearing aid?

If you are concerned about your child's hearing, you should contact the Audiology Department of the Children's Memorial Hospital to schedule an appointment for a hearing test. If your child already wears hearing aids, and you would like him to be re-evaluated, you may schedule an appointment for a hearing aid evaluation.