Hearing aids for children: what parents should know

BTE hearing aids are the most commonly used type for children, thanks to their durability and adaptability. These devices rest behind the ear and connect to a custom ear mold in the ear canal, which can be updated as the child grows. BTE aids are suitable for mild to profound hearing loss and can be tailored to the child’s specific amplification needs.

Key benefits include compatibility with classroom assistive technologies like FM systems or remote microphones, which transmit a teacher’s voice directly to the hearing aid. The larger size also makes BTE devices easier to handle, clean, and maintain, ideal for young children.

RIC hearing aids are smaller and more discreet than BTE devices, with the receiver inside the ear canal. They are often chosen for older children and teenagers who can manage a smaller device. RIC aids are suitable for mild to moderate hearing loss and provide a more cosmetically appealing option.

While offering natural sound quality and comfort, RIC devices are not recommended for very young children due to delicate components. Many RIC aids are compatible with classroom assistive technologies, supporting school-aged children in noisy learning environments.

ITE hearing aids fit entirely within the outer ear and are custom-molded. They are generally reserved for older children whose ear anatomy is fully developed, as younger children’s ears grow quickly.

ITE aids provide a convenient, all-in-one solution, clear sound, and can be programmed to match the child’s hearing profile. Because they sit in the outer ear, they require routine cleaning and careful handling. ITE devices are ideal for children seeking a discreet alternative to BTE aids with reliable amplification.

CIC hearing aids fit deep inside the ear canal, making them less visible than BTE or ITE devices. They are typically designed for mild to moderate hearing loss and older children who have the dexterity to handle small components.

CIC aids provide natural sound quality and can be very comfortable. They are not suitable for toddlers, as growing ears require frequent replacements, and small devices can be hard to insert, remove, or clean.

IIC hearing aids sit even deeper in the ear canal, making them virtually invisible. Designed for older children or teenagers, they offer excellent sound quality and improved localization of sounds.

IIC devices are suitable for mild to moderate hearing loss, but are not practical for very young children due to safety and handling requirements. Proper insertion, cleaning, and maintenance require responsibility, making them ideal for older, cooperative children.

The HSP is a federal initiative that provides subsidised or fully funded hearing aids and associated services for eligible Australians, including children and young people under 26. Families may receive hearing aids at low or no cost, along with hearing assessments, fittings, and ongoing audiology support.

This program is particularly valuable for children with mild to profound hearing loss, ensuring they can access the devices they need without significant financial burden. It also includes follow-up support to help children and parents get the best outcomes from their hearing aids.

Children with a permanent and significant hearing loss that affects daily life may be eligible for support through the NDIS. The scheme can fund hearing aids, accessories, and additional supports that are not covered by the HSP.

NDIS funding is tailored to the child’s individual plan, ensuring devices meet specific hearing, educational, and developmental needs. This approach is especially helpful for children who require additional support to participate fully at school and in daily life.

Many private health funds include hearing aids and audiology services under Extras cover. Policies generally have a 12‑month waiting period, and rebates are paid as a fixed amount or a percentage of the device cost. Rebates commonly range from AUD 1,000 to 1,800 every three years, depending on the insurer and level of cover.

Parents should carefully review waiting periods, annual or multi-year limits, and whether devices must be purchased from approved providers to qualify for rebates. Extras cover can complement HSP or NDIS support, helping families reduce out-of-pocket costs and access higher-end or more feature-rich hearing aids.

Fitting hearing aids for children is a highly specialized process because children’s ears grow rapidly and their auditory systems are still developing. A successful fitting ensures optimal sound quality, comfort, and long-term benefit.

1. Hearing assessment: A pediatric audiologist conducts detailed tests to determine the type and degree of hearing loss. This evaluation forms the basis for choosing the right device.

2. Device programming: The hearing aid is customized to the child’s hearing profile, providing the correct amplification for their specific needs.

3. Ear molds and accessories: Custom-made for comfort and safety, these must be replaced as the child grows to maintain an accurate fit. Accessories like FM adapters, protective covers, and retention clips are also integrated during fitting.

4. Follow-up visits: Regular appointments allow audiologists to monitor device performance, adjust amplification as needed, and track the child’s speech and language development.

Frequent follow-ups are especially critical for children with sensorineural or conductive hearing loss, ensuring they receive consistent auditory stimulation that supports language and learning.