Children are not small adults. Selecting the right hearing aids for children involves careful considerations to ensure they meet the unique needs of young users. Paediatric hearing aids are specially designed for children in mind with children-friendly features such as tamper-proof battery doors, indicator lights, direct audio-input capability and more attractive colours. Advanced hearing aid technology developed for children aims to optimise the program settings for a child’s listening and understanding in any environment – be it at home, playing outdoors or in the classroom. Modern paediatric hearing aids come with advanced features like Bluetooth connectivity and compatibility with assistive listening devices, ensuring children can fully engage with their environment and support their educational needs.
Paediatric hearing aids are essential for supporting the speech, language, educational, social, and cognitive development of children with hearing loss. It provides consistent and audible auditory input which is loud enough for the child to hear, essentially needed for their brain development and cognitive skills. Early intervention with the right hearing aids can make a significant difference in a child’s development by helping them to reach their full potential and enjoy a better quality of life. Our in-house Audiologists have extensive experience in fitting hearing aids to children and will work with parents and their child to determine the most appropriate hearing aid fitting.
Here’s an overview of the key features and considerations for paediatric hearing aids.
1. Safety
It has tamper-proof battery doors that prevent young children from opening the hearing aid and swallowing the battery. Children are usually fitted with soft type earmoulds made of silicone material to provide comfort and reduce the risk of possible injury.
2. Growth Adaptability
The earmould can be replaced as the ear continues to grow, ensuring a sealed and comfortable fit. The hearing aid can also be programmed to adjust the child’s changing hearing needs.
3. Durability
Its robust design is built to endure active lifestyles and withstand accidental drops. It is also water-resistant to protect against moisture and sweat.
4. Colour Options
Paediatric hearing aids come in more attractive colours and designs to appeal to children. These unique colours attract the child’s attention, making them more likely to wear their hearing aids.
5. Connectivity
Direct audio input such as the FM System enhances the child’s learning by transmitting the teacher’s voice directly to the hearing aids, overcoming distance and reducing background noise. Bluetooth connectivity also allows connection to smartphones, tablets, and other devices for streaming audio and using educational apps.
