When your child first gets hearing aids, it may be a bit of a struggle to get them to wear their device consistently. Thankfully, there are several tips you can try to make the process easier on both of you!
Start Slowly and Reward Often 
It’s OK to start slowly when your child first gets their hearing aids. If all they can handle is wearing their device for a few minutes several times a day, start there and build up gradually. If your child keeps on taking them out and you’re starting to feel stressed, take a break and try again when you’re both more relaxed.
Make sure to praise your child when they do wear their hearing aids for the set amount of time. You can also use little rewards, like snacks or small toys to acknowledge that they are doing well.
If your child is taking out their hearing aids because the sound is too loud or it hurts, you might have to adjust the settings or schedule an appointment with your audiologist to make changes.
Create a Hearing Aid Routine
Incorporate hearing aids as part of your child’s routine. Put them in when they get dressed in the morning and take them out after they get their pajamas on and are ready for bed. You could also create specific “hearing aid time” activities, like watching a video or reading a story, so your child starts to make positive associations while wearing their device.
Make Hearing Aids Fun
Children’s hearing aids can come in various vibrant colors and fun prints. You can also buy stickers that they can use to decorate their device. Adding these personal touches can make a child more excited about their hearing aids and might even make them want to show their friends the next time they’re playing at Conejo Community Park.
Let Your Child See Other People with Hearing Aids
If you know other parents who have children with hearing aids, it can be valuable for your child to spend time around them to see that they are not the only ones. If you don’t know of any children, an adult family member or even characters in books and television shows who wear hearing aids can make your child see that there are other people just like them.
How Hearing Aids Can Benefit Children with Hearing Loss
Wearing hearing aids consistently has been shown to improve learning ability in children with hearing loss, particularly when it comes to speech and language skills. They can also enhance your child’s ability to connect and communicate with others.
If you would like additional information about children’s hearing aids or wish to schedule an appointment, contact Decibel Hearing Services today.