Don't be discouraged if you can't find your child’s eardrum at first. The more you use SmartCheck, the easier it can get. To become more comfortable using the device, you may want to practice recording on another adult. Keep in mind that most ear canals are slightly curved, so you’ll need to help straighten it. Using your free hand, firmly pull the top of the ear up and back (for ages 1 year and up) or back and down (for ages 6 to 12 months). You will need to hold the ear in this position until the recording is complete. You may also need to angle the specula tip slightly toward  the person’s  nose to follow the curve of the ear canal. If you’re still having trouble locating the eardrum, stop using SmartCheck and contact your healthcare provider.