by W. Diane Van Zwol

Created on: October 07, 2009

Hearing Problems and Young Children

In a young child, congenital hearing problems or hearing loss may not always be immediately evident, but parents become concerned when they realize that their young child does not hear them or anything else.

"Are you listening to me?" the parents may ask their child. Sometimes, they try speaking louder to the child or yelling at him or her, when it becomes apparent that the child does not seem to hear what they are saying. Parents often use various kinds of sounds like clapping, singing, or ringing a bell, etc. behind the child, to see if he or she can hear.

Parents may suspect that their child has a hearing problem, when he or she does not respond immediately to sounds or loud noises. Note that unusual noises or loud sounds will normally startle or frighten a young child and may cause him or her to cry.

"Does this child have a hearing problem?" grandparents, baby sitters or others might begin to wonder, when they realize that a young child is not responding appropriately to sounds or loud noises.

Parents or guardians should have their child's ears and hearing checked by a family doctor, as soon as it becomes apparent that there may be a hearing problem. If necessary, the family doctor may recommend a referral to a pediatrician, hearing specialist (audiologist) or a surgeon.

Be aware that sometimes, a child may be born with a congenital hearing problem. Hearing loss can also occur at a very young age. Sometimes, this will correct itself. Medical or surgical treatment may be required, at other times.

Assessing the hearing of a young child appears difficult, but it is possible to do so.

Parents can do their part by keeping a record of what their child appears to hear and does not seem to hear, if they suspect that their child has a hearing problem. Over time, it may become increasingly apparent that the child actually cannot hear anything. This can be a frightening experience for parents who love their child and want to protect him or her.

Remember that child safety often involves hearing properly.

According to the Canadian Academy of Audiology, "no child is too young to test" for congenital hearing problems or hearing loss. (1)

Assessing, testing and treating young children with hearing problems is important, as being able to hear properly, can and will affect their lives, as well as their development.

The Canadian Academy of Audiology suggests the following methods of hearing assessment for young children.

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