5 Perfect Gifts for Deaf Teens

As Christmas quickly approaches, it can be difficult to know what to gift a deaf or hard of hearing teenager.

Luckily, I myself am a deaf teen, so I have some idea about what gifts they might like! Whether you’re looking for stocking fillers or for larger presents, here are some ideas of gifts for deaf teens (complete with a cost guide) to get you started! 

Skinits

Skinits are designed to fit directly onto a range of Phonak devices. They are pre-cut, long-lasting, easy to use, and they leave no residue when removed from the device. There are lots of designs to choose from, and there is also the option to custom design them.

I love my Skinits and have a selection of them to swap and change depending on my mood or style!

Cost: $9.99 USD per sheet. Each sheet is enough to decorate two hearing aids, or one hearing aid twice.

Direct Audio Input (DAI) Leads

Direct Audio Input leads connect directly to the hearing aids via a ‘shoe’ to listen to music. Listening to music through your own hearing aids is much better than using generic earphones, as the hearing aids can adjust the sound levels according to the hearing loss without causing any potential further damage to residual hearing. I also find that using the DAIsystem is much clearer and comfortable than generic earphones. The best thing? The system looks very similar to a normal pair of earphones and they are available in black or white.

Cost: Approximately $80 USD for a binaural set-up

Vibrating Alarm Clock

Many teens enjoy increased freedom to stay at friends’ houses, school trips away, and festivals. One of the best presents I ever received was my Sonic Alert vibrating alarm clock which is perfect for travelling! It comes with a clip to stop it from falling down the side of the bed (I usually put it in my pillow case!) and its own travel case. The alarm clock can be set to audio only, vibrate only, or both together. It is also available in Pink Camo!

Cost: Approximately $30 USD

Ear Gear

Ear Gear are small, washable fabric covers which slip over hearing aids. They protect the device from dust and sweat without impacting upon the listening experience. Ear gear are available in a variety of colours (neutral or bright) and can come with cords for extra safety (great for those who are sporty!).

Cost: $26-40 USD (depending on product selection).

Smartwatch

Although potentially the most expensive product on this list, smartwatches are proving very useful for many deaf and hard of hearing people out there. Smartwatches usually connect with smartphones and can alert you to calls, texts, and other notifications by lighting up or vibrating. Many deaf and hard of hearing people have found their smartwatches useful for morning alarms, oven timers, and more.

Cost: Smartwatches vary greatly in price due to differences in specifications. Some can be found for as little as $40 USD, while others can be several hundred dollars.

Do you have any other last-minute ideas for gifts for deaf  teens? Please share them in the comments!

• Author Details

Author Details

Eloise Garland

Eloise is a 22-year-old musician, teacher, and Deaf Awareness Campaigner based in London. She is a proud wearer of two brightly-decorated Phonak hearing aids. Her hobbies include cooking, singing, reading, and photography.