Being unsure if your child’s hearing is impacting their speech, learning, or social development can be scary. While occasional missed words in a noisy room are normal, consistent signs of hearing difficulty can point to a more serious concern. Recognizing these signs early can make all the difference in ensuring your child receives the right support at the right time.
A pediatric hearing specialist has the expertise to evaluate your child’s hearing health and recommend the most effective next steps. Below are 15 clear indicators that it may be time to schedule an evaluation.
1. Delayed or Unclear Speech
If your child’s speech is not developing at an age-appropriate pace or if they frequently mispronounce words, hearing issues could be a contributing factor. Children learn language by listening, so even mild hearing loss can slow this process.
2. No Startle Response to Loud Sounds in Infancy
Newborns and young infants typically startle or turn their heads toward sudden loud noises. A lack of reaction can be one of the earliest signs of hearing difficulty.
3. Not Turning Toward Sound by Six Months
By about six months of age, babies generally turn toward the source of a sound. If your child is not doing this consistently, it may be worth discussing with your pediatrician.
4. Poor Response to Their Name
If your child does not respond when called, particularly in quiet environments, it could be due to hearing loss rather than simply being distracted.
5. Lack of Babbling
Babbling is a crucial developmental step in building speech skills. If your baby is not experimenting with sounds by seven to nine months, hearing issues could be a factor.
6. No Single Words by Twelve Months
Hearing loss can delay the milestone of saying simple words like “mama” or “dada” by a year old.
7. Hearing Some Sounds but Not Others
Some children with hearing loss can detect low-pitched sounds but struggle with high-pitched ones, or vice versa. If your child seems selective in what they hear, an assessment is recommended.
8. Frequently Asking for Repeats
If your child often says “What?” or “Huh?” during conversations, especially in quiet settings, it might be more than a focus issue.
9. Turning the TV or Device Volume Up Too High
Excessively loud TV or tablet volume is a common indicator of potential hearing issues.
10. Trouble Following Directions
Difficulty understanding and following instructions, especially those with multiple steps, can be related to hearing challenges.
11. Struggling in Group or Noisy Environments
Background noise can make hearing especially difficult for children with mild hearing loss. If your child seems lost in group conversations, this may be why.
12. Academic Struggles
Hearing difficulties can lead to missed classroom information, affecting learning outcomes and grades.
13. Frequent Ear Infections or Ear Pain
Chronic ear infections can cause temporary or even long-term hearing problems if left untreated.
14. Tinnitus or Ringing in the Ears
Though often associated with adults, ringing or buzzing in the ears can occur in children and may signal underlying hearing damage.
15. Dizziness or Balance Problems
The inner ear plays a role in balance, so frequent dizziness or clumsiness can sometimes be linked to hearing concerns.
When to Seek Immediate Evaluation
You should contact a pediatric hearing specialist right away if:
- Your child failed a newborn hearing screening
- You notice multiple signs from the list above
- There is a sudden change in your child’s hearing ability
Early diagnosis is key to preventing delays in speech, language, and social development.
The Importance of Early Action
Hearing plays a vital role in how children learn and connect with others. Even mild hearing loss can have lasting effects if not addressed quickly. Pediatric hearing specialists use advanced tests to determine the type and extent of hearing issues, guiding you through treatment or management options.
If you are unsure whether your child’s challenges are related to hearing, start with a conversation with your pediatrician. From there, they can refer you to a specialist for a thorough evaluation.
Give your child the best chance at healthy communication, learning, and confidence by acting early. Schedule an evaluation with our pediatric hearing specialist today at Pediatric Associates of Dallas.
