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Types of Hearing Aids for Children

There are many options when it comes to choosing a hearing aid for a child. However, digital hearing aids are the most innovative because they are very flexible and have the ability to match amplification with the level of hearing loss through a computer chip.

  1. Completely in the Canal (CIC)

    • CIC hearing aids are the smallest devices on the market. Because all the components are in a small case that sits in the ear canal, they are almost invisible. CICs are made for each ear, but the child has to have ear canals big enough to fit the instrumentation. They are not designed for people with severe hearing loss.

    In the Canal (ITC)

    • ITC hearing aids are slightly larger than CICs. They fit into the ear canal, and are used for children with mild to moderate hearing loss.

    In the Ear (ITE)

    • ITE hearing aids are larger, easier to handle, have more features and can house larger sound amplifiers. They are suitable for children with varying degrees of hearing loss.

    Behind the Ear (BTE)

    • BTE hearing aids consist of a case of electronics that sits behind the ear, with a tube that carries sound into the ear canal. This durable hearing aid is usually recommended for children, and can be made to match skin and hair coloring.

    Considerations

    • Hearing aids can be very expensive, and many insurance companies do not provide coverage for them. Some states have passed laws requiring that listening devices be covered, but according to HelpKidsHear.org, it's the exception rather than the rule (see Resources). Look to Medicare, Medicaid and non-profit groups for assistance with the cost.

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