Q&A

Subject: Earmolds and other problems with 2yr old

From: HR

1. We are having a problem that her molds are not properly fit. Audiologist is saying her canals are small so that's why we are not getting a proper fitting.

2. Speech Therapy is available but not with a proper school facility. What can we do on our part?

3. When should we buy a FM, she has been using hearing aid for 3 months. Hearing aids are PHONAK behind the ear type. Which brand of FM should we get? HR

1. Earmolds on young children are really hard to do and several attempts may be required. The earmold labs usually will remake the same material and style without charge though your audiologist may have a minimal materials fee for remakes. We have found that the softer M2000 (also called elastimer) material works well for difficult ears, but a big problem is that the tube will not stick with glue, and they must use a collar on the tube. This collar cuts through the mold reducing its usable life.

In general, we are more successful on young children using a soft vinyl earmold material, which is easily modifiable and which allows us to glue in the tube securely. I know it is frustrating all around, but just keep trying. If you get a good mold, quickly call the lab and ask them to send you the "investment" so you can use that as the starting place next time.

2. Speech therapy is essential. In some areas you have access to services through your county public school program but you may also have services available through state agencies. In Maryland, the public schools have a well supported program of oral, signed and cued speech programs from infants on up. The state school for the deaf will also send speech therapists to the home for supplemental services. Furthermore, there are the federal programs associated with Gallaudet University and the Kendall Model School available. Parents have lots of choices in Maryland. You need to check to see what is available in your state.

If there really is no appropriate service near you, contact the John Tracey Clinic in Los Angeles. They have a wonderful home program which they can make available to you. The Alexander Graham Bell Assoc. For the Deaf also maintains referral lists. They are located on Volta Place in Washington, DC.

3. You have the greatest hearing aids!! Phonak aids are reliable and versatile. They also have the neatest FM system that just plugs into the bottom of the aid. Talk about compact! Talk to your audiologist about that new FM system. Especially for small heads, it is well worth considering.

Stay in touch!
Solveig