Hearing disorders in children can affect speech and language development, which impacts their ability to communicate effectively. This guide explains what to watch for, when to screen, and how to get help.
Types of hearing disorders
- Conductive — Outer- or middle-ear issue: sound feels blocked or muffled
- Sensorineural — Inner-ear or auditory-nerve issue: clarity of sound is reduced, even when sound is loud enough
- Mixed — Individual has a combination of conductive and sensorineural hearing loss
- Auditory Neuropathy Spectrum Disorder (ANSD) — The ear can detect sound, but signals are not traveling to the brain clearly, creating distorted sounds and speech.
- Central Auditory Processing Disorder (CAPD) — The ear can hear, but the brain has trouble processing sound. It is especially difficult when listening with background noises and remembering information that is heard.
Screening and developmental milestones
According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), screening children for hearing loss is vital for early identification and management. Infants should have their hearing tested at least by one month of age.
Typical milestones include:
3-6 months
- Recognizes your voice
- Makes cooing sounds
- Startled by loud or sudden noises
6-9 months
- Recognizes speech sounds and familiar voices
- Uses own voice and laughter
- Understands simple words and name
- Begins to babble
9-24 months
- Says recognizable first words, follows simple directions
- Understands simple phrases and sentences
- Vocabulary comprehension is approximately 200 to 300 words
Signs to watch for (any age)
As your child gets older, some of the signs of hearing loss will include delayed responses, difficulty concentrating in school, turning up the volume on the tv/music, or appearing to be looking at you more intensely whenever you speak. Additional signs also include:
- Not responding to name or missing soft sounds
- Speech that seems unclear for age or frequent “huh?/what?”
- Turning volume up high or sitting very close to devices
- Trouble following directions, especially in noisy places
- Leaning in, watching lips closely, or relying on visual cues
Next steps and care pathway
If you start to notice any red flags, start with your pediatrician. You may be referred to an audiologist for a full hearing evaluation. Depending on the cause and type of hearing loss, care options can include treatment for ear infections, speech-language support, hearing aids, cochlear implants, classroom accommodations (IEP/504) and safe-listening coaching.
Screen early, watch milestones, and seek evaluations if you notice any red flags. Having timely support will help your child’s communication, learning abilities and overall confidence.
