Any parent knows that getting your child to do what they’re supposed to can often be quite the chore. Getting them to wear their hearing aids can be no different.
If you are struggling to get your child to wear their device, know that you are not alone. Be patient and try out some of these tips to help make the process easier.
Ensure Hearing Aids are Comfortable and Secure
If you’re having a problem with your child keeping their device on because they are very active, consider using hearing retainers or a headband to help keep them in place.
If, on the other hand, your child seems to be taking them out because they are uncomfortable or too loud there are a couple of things you can do:
- Warm the earmolds in your hands for a few moments before trying to put them in. This makes them softer and more comfortable.
- Check hearing aid settings to see if they are too loud.
- If problems persist, contact their audiologist.
Offer Incentives for Wearing Hearing Aids
It will take your child time to adjust to wearing hearing aids regularly. There’s nothing wrong with offering them rewards during that process. Consider things like stickers, snacks or small toys if they wear their device for a certain amount of time. Also, make sure to offer praise for keeping their hearing aids on. These types of positive reinforcements can be very beneficial.
Let Your Child Personalize Their Hearing Device
Children’s hearing aids can come in a variety of vibrant colors and fun prints. You can also buy stickers that your child can use to decorate their device. Adding these personal touches can make a child more excited about their hearing aids and may even make them want to show their friends the next time they have a playdate at Everhart Park.
Make Listening Fun
Studies have shown that hearing aids help children with hearing loss improve their speech and language skills. Put that to good use and read fun stories or sing a song while they wear their device. The more they start to associate using hearing aids with getting to experience sounds they couldn’t before, the more willing they will be to wear them consistently.
Show Them That Other People Wear Hearing Devices
Meeting other families with children who have hearing loss and wear hearing aids or cochlear devices can help your child feel more comfortable about wearing one themselves. If you don’t know any other children personally, adults with hearing aids or even characters in books and TV shows can help to show your child that they are not alone.
For more tips on how to get your child to keep their hearing aids on or to schedule an appointment, call Pinnacle ENT Associates today.