In 2012, Jane Madell, PhD and I sent out a survey to a variety of groups of parents of children who are hard of hearing or deaf, asking them what strategies they used to keep hearing aids on their children when they were very young. We also asked them to rate the various hearing aid retention accessories that are available. The results provide valuable information for families to know and for audiologists and early intervention professionals to share with the families they support. Jane and I then developed the information into three 2-page brochures that can be provided to families based on the age of their child. Again, thank you parents for sharing your expertise. Karen L. Anderson, PhD, Director.
Downloadable Keeping Hearing Aids On Brochures for Families
The brochures address why and when hearing aids are needed; basic problems keeping hearing aids on for children in that age range; and hearing device retention accessory information. Print out as a two-sided document and fold as a brochure. Provide to families as their child grows throughout early childhood. Audiology clinics and early intervention programs are encouraged to print brochures to have copies readily available for families when hearing aid retention issues are discussed.
Download and print your brochure information now! Select the brochure below and print! Both sides is suggested, using 28# or 30# paper.
Babies and Hearing Aids – 0-12 Months: 0-3 months; 4-6 months; 6 months; 9 months; 12 months; how to keep hearing aids out of your baby’s mouth; how to discourage his practicing the skill of yanking off the hearing aids
Toddlers 12 to 24 months: during the second year; about 20 months; how to discourage your child from yanking off the hearing aids; checking the hearing aids daily with toddlers
Preschoolers and Hearing Aids – 2-5 Years:the terrible twos; the curious threes; the sensitive fours; checking hearing aids daily with preschoolers
Spanish version of the 3 brochures
Also available: Oticon USA has made the content of these 3 brochures available in one brochure called the Children’s Retention brochure (#15500-3025). It is available for ordering through pediatrics@oticonusa.com. You can request up to 10 free per order or download them from the Oticon website at: https://www.oticon.com/-/media/oticon-us/main/download-center/family-support-materials/professional-all/35537-keeping-hearing-aids-on-young-children.pdf Spanish version also available! Thanks Oticon!
Ear Gear was rated top by families for effectiveness for keeping young children’s hearing aids on and safe! Once this finding was evident, a special price was negotiated with Ear Gear for families/professionals who wish to try Ear Gear!