Your Child’s Audiologist Appointment

If your child has trouble hearing, then it’s a wise idea to consult with an audiologist. It’s in your best interest to do what’s in your power to make the most of your child’s audiologist appointment. You can help your child gain access to optimal sound and hearing by involving yourself in the appointments and process.

An audiologist will work with your child to identify hearing levels, check devices and manage auditory health. As the parent and guardian, you can engage yourself by asking questions, documenting listening and discussing decisions. Together parents and audiologists can use appointments as learning sessions on how to help the child, which is the goal for all of you.

Getting comfortable

You may feel uneasy because you don’t know what to expect at your child’s appointment with an audiologist. It’s normal to be a bit hesitant and nervous when you’re entering a situation that’s unfamiliar to you. The audiologist should take the time to explain the exam and tests that will be done, so you and your child know what to expect. There isn’t any pain associated with this type of appointment, so be sure to let your child know this to provide them with some additional comfort.

You want to find an audiologist who works well with children and families and has experience working in pediatrics. As you increase your contact with one another and deepen your communications, you’ll likely find that you’re able to form a rewarding working relationship built on trust and understanding.

Asking questions

You likely want to know what your child can hear currently. The audiologist will use an audiogram to test your child’s hearing and to show what sounds should be audible and at what distance the child should hear them. Your child may be asked to push a button or raise his or her hand when they hear a sound or word. You’ll be able to bring up what you’re observing at home when it comes to your child’s hearing and where and when you believe they’re having the most difficulty. Encourage your child to address any questions he or she has as well so that you can work as a team to determine the best treatment plan.

Educating yourself

Your child’s audiologist appointment is also a good time to educate yourself on any devices your child is using. Ask and learn how to perform daily checks on your child’s hearing aids to ensure they’re working properly. Bring up any concerns so they can troubleshoot problems such as cleaning, distortion, static, or intermittence. Learn the terminology, how the hearing devices work and what to do if you have concerns so you can respond appropriately in the future.

Making decisions

Arrive at the audiologist appointment prepared to discuss issues and progress that is being made. It’ll help you to feel empowered and be an advocate for your child and his or her hearing. Some examples of what to be aware of at home and in school include:

• Circumstances when the child listens well
• Settings when the child has difficulties
• Distance that seems to be best for responses
• Sounds the child is hearing often
• Sounds which are upsetting or unnoticed
• Inconsistencies that are concerning
• Worries the family has currently
• Questions parents need explained

Your reports and feedback are going to help the audiologist determine how your child is doing and what other treatments he or she may require.   

Your audiologist will likely give you suggestions for how to work on and increase listening skills. These remarks will be based on your observations and input. You may want your child to go through more testing, your child may want a specific color of hearing aid and your audiologist may suggest trying a different device. Regardless of the topic at hand, it’s important that you are all on the same page when the appointment is over. Forming a partnership between your family, child and the audiologist will help to ensure you can make the most out of every appointment and help your child to hear better.

Scheduling an appointment

Children with hearing loss younger than eight years of age will benefit from visiting the audiologist more than once per year. Making appointments when there are concerns can help keep a child’s auditory input consistent for clear communication. If you’re ready to schedule your child’s audiologist appointment, then look no further. Learn more about Adirondack Audiology online and contact us at this phone number to book an appointment at (888) 347-5899.