Understanding Hearing Technology: Support for Your Child’s Journey
Every child’s journey is unique, and exploring hearing technology can be an important step in supporting their communication needs. At BEGINNINGS for Parents of Children Who Are Deaf or Hard of Hearing, we understand that this journey can feel overwhelming, but we are here to guide you along the way. Below are some technologies that can support your child’s hearing and communication:
Hearing Aids
Hearing aids amplify sound for children with mild to severe hearing loss. The most common type of hearing aid for children with sensorineural hearing loss rests behind the ear and connects to an earmold that fits in the ear canal. These devices help make speech and other sounds clearer, which improves communication and language development. For children with conductive hearing loss, bone conduction hearing aids transmit sound vibrations through the bone of the skull, bypassing the outer and middle ear.
Cochlear Implants
Cochlear implants are surgically implanted electronic devices designed for individuals with moderate to profound hearing loss who do not benefit significantly from hearing aids. Unlike hearing aids, which amplify sound, cochlear implants directly stimulate the auditory nerve to provide a sense of sound. A cochlear implant consists of an external sound processor, which is worn behind the ear or on the head. This processor captures sound and converts it into digital signals. An internal implant, surgically placed under the skin, receives the signals from the processor and sends them to electrodes in the cochlea, which then stimulate the auditory nerve and send sound signals to the brain.
Assistive Listening Devices (ALDs)
ALDs are additional tools that enhance a child’s ability to hear and understand speech, especially in noisy environments like classrooms. These devices work alongside hearing aids and cochlear implants. A common ALD is an FM system, where the speaker (such as a teacher) wears a microphone, and the sound is transmitted wirelessly to the child’s hearing aid or cochlear implant. These systems help overcome distance, background noise, and poor acoustics. Another type of ALD is an infrared system, which uses infrared light to send sound from a transmitter to a receiver worn by the child, often used in large spaces like auditoriums. Induction loop systems use electromagnetic fields to transmit sound directly to hearing devices with telecoils (T-coils), commonly found in places like theaters and churches.
Communication Access
Ensuring that your child has full access to communication is essential. Many venues offer accessibility options to support individuals who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing. Movie theaters, TV programs, and live events often provide open or closed captions or interpreters to make content more accessible. Many public spaces, including theaters and museums, offer induction loop systems or ALDs for clearer sound. CART (Communication Access Realtime Translation) provides real-time transcription services, ensuring accessibility. Video Relay Services (VRS) enable children to communicate using sign language interpreters via video calls, providing real-time access to conversations. Being aware of these accommodations helps families advocate for their child's right to communication access in various environments.
Alerting Devices
Children who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing may need specialized alerting systems to stay safe and aware of their surroundings. Vibrating and flashing alarm clocks can wake children up with strong vibrations or bright flashing lights instead of sound. Doorbell and phone alerts send flashing light or vibration signals when someone is at the door or calling. Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors flash or send alerts in case of an emergency. These devices help children and families stay connected, aware, and safe in their daily lives.
BEGINNINGS’ Parent Educators are here to provide:
- Unbiased information on hearing technology and communication options
- Emotional support as you explore what works best for your child
- Resources and advocacy guidance to help ensure your child has access to communication in all areas of life
No matter where you are on this journey, we are here to support you.
Learn more and connect with a Parent Educator today.
