Parents of babies and preschoolers may wonder if their child is suffering from hearing loss. How much of the child’s behavior is due to his age? Does he hear me, but is just ignoring me? There are several tools parents can use to evaluate if a hearing loss is present.
Newborn Infant Hearing Screenings
Most babies are tested for hearing loss before they even leave the hospital. Although newborn hearing screenings are not foolproof, the results should be taken seriously. Further testing should be done to determine if there is a hearing loss. Early intervention is important to make use of valuable language development needs of the infant.
Child Observation at Home
Determining whether or not a child has a hearing loss should not be solely based on observation at home, but there are some things parents should recognize as possible signs of hearing impairment.
- Does a baby appear to babble for a time and at a slightly older age make no sounds?
- Does the child seem to ignore directions or attempts at conversation?
- Does the child have frequent ear infections?
Check up with the Pediatrician
Parents who suspect that their child has a hearing loss should make an appointment with the child’s pediatrician. Sometimes there is a hearing loss that is caused by an ear infection, build up of wax, or excessive fluid in the ear. This kind of hearing impairment is not permanent, but it is important that it be treated.
Temporary hearing loss may be treated with medication or simple procedures such as placing tubes in the ears. If further evaluation is necessary, the doctor may refer the child to an audiologist for extensive testing or to an ENT (a doctor specializing in treating conditions of the ear, nose, and throat).
Testing by an Audiologist
If a child is referred for audiological testing, he will be tested in a sound proof booth. The audiologist will be able to present sounds at various frequencies and volumes to determine what kind (if any) hearing loss the child has. Sounds are also presented in isolation and with background noise.
Preschool / Elementary School Hearing Screenings
Simple hearing screenings are conducted routinely for preschool and elementary aged children. These screenings are done in schools (usually by the school nurse). If there is a concern (if the child “fails” the screening), the procedure is repeated and the parents are notified so they can follow up with further medical or assessment as needed.
Only an audiologist can determine if a hearing loss exists, but understanding the warning signs of hearing loss is important for parents and caregivers. Immediate follow up with a doctor can determine if an infection or fluid in the ear is the problem. Early treatment and intervention is critical to the child’s speech and language development.
