Finding out your child has hearing loss and needs hearing aids can be an emotional time for parents. But with the right support and information, you can ensure your child gets the best treatment and has every opportunity to develop speech, language and communication skills. Here’s what to expect if your child needs hearing aids.
Getting Diagnosed
If you have any concerns about your child’s hearing, don’t delay in getting them tested. The earlier hearing loss is identified, the better the outcomes. Your GP can refer your child for a hearing test, which is usually done at a local audiology clinic. The test, called an audiogram, measures how well your child can hear different volumes and pitches. If you’ve had a test done in the past at a clinic like https://www.hearclearni.co.uk/, you will know what to expect. If hearing loss is detected, the audiologist will advise on the next steps. Hearing tests are free for children on the NHS.
Choosing Hearing Aids
There are different types of hearing aids available for children through the NHS. Behind-the-ear aids hook over the top of the ear and carry the microphone and amplifier. In-the-ear aids fit directly in the ear canal and are less visible. Bone-anchored hearing aids attach to a small titanium implant in the skull. Your audiologist will recommend the most suitable type and settings. Children’s ear canals grow quickly so aids may need replacing regularly. NHS hearing aids for children are free.
Getting Used to Hearing Aids
It can take time for children to get accustomed to wearing hearing aids. Choose decorations like stickers to make them fun. Start with just an hour or two of wear each day and build up gradually. Give lots of positive encouragement when they wear the aids. Be patient – it’s a learning curve for you and your child. Keep a diary to track progress. Arrange follow-up appointments to check fit and make adjustments.
Support at School
Tell your child’s nursery or school about the hearing loss and aids. Ask them to seat your child close to the teacher to help them hear. Suggest teachers use visual aids, face the child when speaking, and repeat questions from other students. Some children may need additional classroom assistance. Your audiologist can advise the school on meeting your child’s needs. Don’t be afraid to advocate for your child.
Speech and Language Therapy
Hearing loss can affect speech and language development. Your child will likely be referred for NHS speech and language therapy. The therapist will assess your child’s communication skills and teach you exercises and activities to do at home to boost listening, speech, vocabulary and sentence building. Implementing their recommendations in your daily life is key. Therapy may continue for several years alongside hearing aid use.
Socialising and Confidence
Making friendships and building self-esteem is so important. Join a support group to connect with other parents going through the same experiences. Learning sign language can help you and your child communicate. Keep taking your child to interactive sessions like baby sensory classes so they don’t feel isolated. And remember to praise their achievements – big or small!
Try not to worry about the future – early intervention with hearing aids gives your child great prospects. Focus step-by-step on helping them develop communication skills. Stay in close contact with their audiologist and speech therapist for ongoing management. With your support, there’s no limit to what your child can achieve.
