When Should Children Have Their First Hearing Test

Hearing loss can happen at any age so it’s essential that all children have hearing tests at the appropriate times. If not identified, hearing loss can make it difficult for children to hear and understand, affecting their experience of school, friendships and more. Here’s what you need to know about hearing tests for children.

From Birth

It’s crucial for children to have their hearing tested from birth for several important reasons. Firstly, early identification of hearing loss allows for prompt intervention, which is essential for language and speech development. Detecting hearing loss early enables appropriate support and interventions to be implemented to minimize the impact on a child’s communication skills.

Additionally, hearing loss can affect a child’s social and emotional well-being, so identifying it early can help address any potential challenges they may face. Early testing also ensures that any necessary medical or therapeutic interventions can be initiated as soon as possible, maximizing the child’s potential for successful outcomes. By routinely testing children’s hearing from birth, audiologists can ensure that any hearing issues are identified and addressed promptly, setting the stage for optimal development and quality of life.

Other Available Screening Tests

Children will be offered screening tests periodically throughout their childhood. Many schools offer screenings at the ages from four to 10. Additional screenings are available for teenagers. If your child has any symptoms of hearing loss, a hearing test should be arranged immediately. Treatment for hearing loss can help your child to hear better in life and offer the best overall health.

Signs of Hearing Loss in Children

There are many signs of hearing loss in children and it can be difficult to see them as symptoms of hearing loss initially. Common signs include difficulty following conversations and difficulty in hearing teachers or understanding peers. Your child may also display difficulty with speech and language so development could be slower.

How Is a Child’s Hearing Test Performed?

It’s natural to have some concerns when you take a child for any test. Will it hurt? Will my child stay still? The more you know about children’s hearing tests, the better equipped you will be to prepare your child. An audiologist will conduct a hearing test on your child, and both you and your child will be made to feel comfortable throughout. The way an audiologist tests hearing in children is through behavioral responses. For instance, a baby responding to sound may move his eyes or head, whereas an older child may respond to a question by raising their hands.

Children can also respond by pointing to pictures or moving toys around. If your audiologist believes that your child has hearing loss, your child will be offered a form of treatment.

If you have noticed any symptoms of hearing loss in your child, schedule a hearing test with a local audiologist today. They will be able to diagnose your child’s hearing loss, and provide them with the best treatment like hearing aids.