Hearing is a critical sense for a child’s development. Being able to hear well allows children to develop speech, language, and social skills. Unfortunately, hearing loss often goes undetected in children. Knowing the early signs of potential hearing problems is crucial for getting children the help they need as soon as possible. This article outlines eight early signs that a child may have hearing difficulties.
Not Responding to Noises or Voices
One of the most obvious signs of hearing loss in children is a lack of response to sounds. This includes not reacting to loud noises such as a vacuum cleaner or loud music. A child with hearing problems may also not respond when their name is called, even at close range. Any lack of response to sounds, voices or noises should be checked out by a doctor.
Delayed Speech Development
Since hearing plays a big part in learning to talk, delayed speech can indicate hearing difficulties. Children should say their first words by 12 months and put two words together by age two. If a child is not meeting these milestones, schedule a hearing test. The earlier hearing loss is caught, the better chance a child has of developing good speech and language skills.
Not Following Directions
Young children with hearing problems may not respond to verbal commands. A child who is able to hear well should be able to follow simple directions by age two.
If a child consistently does not respond to verbal cues, a hearing test is recommended.
Watching Faces Intently
Children with hearing loss often focus visual attention on faces, especially when someone is talking. Pay attention if your child seems to stare intensely at your face when you are speaking to them. This may indicate they are lip-reading due to hearing difficulties.
Turning the TV Volume Up
While many children enjoy loud TV, if your child constantly turns up the volume very high or complains they cannot hear the TV, this could signal a hearing problem. Some loss of hearing high-pitched frequencies can make speech on TV harder to understand. If you notice your child struggling to hear the TV even at high volumes, be sure to ask your audiologist for information about hearing aids that can help amplify and clarify speech frequencies.
Withdrawing from Social Situations
Since hearing loss can make communication challenging, some children start to isolate themselves. Watch for signs of social withdrawal or lack of interest in group activities. A child who struggles to hear may avoid interacting due to frustration.
Regular Ear Infections
Chronic ear infections can cause fluid build-up in the ears, leading to temporary hearing loss.
Children who suffer repeat ear infections, especially early in life, are more likely to develop permanent hearing loss over time. Seek treatment promptly for ear infections.
Complaints About Noise Hurting Their Ears
Some types of hearing loss make everyday noises seem painfully loud. If a child regularly covers their ears or says sounds hurt their ears, get their hearing tested. This reaction to normal environmental noise can signify hypersensitivity.
Paying attention to early warning signs allows parents to get help for children as soon as hearing loss appears. Look out for lack of response to noise, delays in speech development, not following verbal cues and other signs covered in this article. Early detection and treatment through hearing aids, implants or therapy provides children with the best opportunity to communicate effectively and reach their full potential.
