Signs of hearing loss

Although every child develops differently, some signs may indicate your pre-school or school-age child has a hearing loss:

• Cannot be understood by most people
• Often asks for things to be repeated
• Seems to watch your face closely when you talk
• Seems inattentive at home or school
• Does not communicate as well as other children the same age
• Often responds to a question with an unrelated answer
• Prefers the TV or radio louder than others in the family
• Has had many ear infections
• Uses gestures to communicate

Hearing is an essential tool for learning speech, especially between birth and three years, so it is a good idea to have your child’s hearing tested as soon as possible if you suspect a problem. Some hearing problems (such as ear infections) are temporary and can be cured with medication; however, others are permanent and require your child to be fitted with hearing aids. The earlier you can determine this for certain, the better it is for your child’s speech, language, social and academic development.