Hearing Devices
Frequently Asked Questions About Device Use
This section addresses common questions parents have about device use with young children, applicable to hearing aids, cochlear implants, or both.
How can I get my child to use the hearing devices on a regular basis?
The goal is to work toward full-time hearing device use during waking hours as part of daily routine. Some babies readily accept devices; others resist. Strategies include:
- Put devices on during interactive times when parent is nearby talking, singing, or playing
- Distract with toys or food during insertion
- Use lightweight caps or headbands temporarily to prevent removal
- Implement rewards for toddlers (stickers for wearing devices)
- Establish routine times, such as during morning dressing
Parents should maintain control over when devices go on and off, not the young child.
My baby keeps pulling his devices out of his ears. What can I do?
This behavior is common in toddlers and many parents experience it. First, verify no mechanical issues exist—confirm proper earmold fit and appropriate volume with your audiologist. Addressing underlying problems often resolves removal behavior.
I get frustrated when my child pulls the devices off every time I look away! What can I do?
Maintaining calm is essential. Recommended approaches include:
- Distract with engaging items while inserting devices
- Calmly replace devices without showing frustration
- Persist consistently—"be more stubborn than your child"
- Trust this is temporary; avoid power struggles
- Use humor to reduce tension
- Recognize independence-seeking as positive development
- Allow breaks if child is upset; try again when calm
How can I tell if my baby's hearing aids are working?
Conduct daily listening checks to verify appropriate amplification. Audiologists use special techniques during fitting. Indicator lights show devices are powered but don't confirm proper sound levels. Watch for behavioral responses: turning toward sounds, excitement at familiar songs, or hand-clapping responses. Some children hear enough without aids to respond to some sounds, but may miss quieter speech essential for language development.
How can I prevent my child from losing her devices?
For Hearing Aids:
- Manufacturer warranties typically include loss and damage coverage
- Extended warranties available from manufacturers
- Hearing aid insurance companies offer yearly warranties
- Some homeowner's insurance policies cover lost devices
For Cochlear Implants:
- Five-year repair warranty included with initial kit
- One-time loss-and-damage replacement within five years
- Three-year warranty on processor upgrades
- Extended manufacturer warranties available after initial period
- Some homeowner's insurance policies apply
What causes hearing aid whistling and what can I do to stop it?
Whistling, or feedback, occurs when amplified sound returns to the microphone. Solutions include:
- Enable feedback management feature in devices
- Replace earmolds frequently—children may need new ones every 2-3 months as ears grow
- Ensure complete earmold insertion
- Use Comply Wraps or lubricants to improve seal
- Clean earmold tubing of earwax buildup
- Replace damaged earmold tubing
- Have pediatrician remove excess earwax from ear canal if needed
What are some ways I can take care of my child's devices?
Manufacturers provide care kits with listening scopes, cleaning brushes, battery checkers, and instructions. Video tutorials are available on manufacturer websites for device-specific care guidelines.
As my child grows, how can I help her own her hearing devices?
Foster ownership and responsibility by allowing older children to choose earmold colors and patterns. As children enter school, encourage self-advocacy: changing batteries independently, requesting clearer speech, and asking others to rephrase. Sharing storybooks about hearing loss promotes understanding. Classroom "Show and Tell" presentations help children own their hearing loss. Connection with other deaf or hard-of-hearing children through support groups empowers advocacy.
Resources for classroom sharing templates: