Pediatric Hearing Screenings: What Parents Should Know

Hearing is a critical part of a child’s development, impacting their language, learning, and social interaction skills. Unfortunately, hearing loss is a relatively common issue in children. Early detection and intervention are important in helping children reach their full potential and avoid the negative impacts of untreated hearing loss.

Why Pediatric Hearing Screenings Are Important

Pediatric hearing screenings are simple, non-invasive tests designed to identify potential hearing problems in infants and young children. It’s recommended that all newborns have a hearing screening. Research has shown that untreated hearing loss can cause delays in speech and language development and negatively impact social and emotional development.

Early detection and intervention can significantly improve language and communication skills, academic achievements, and social interactions. For these reasons, it’s important to screen for hearing loss as early as possible.

When are Pediatric Hearing Screenings Performed?

Pediatric hearing screenings are typically performed at several points in a child’s life. The most common times for hearing screening include:

1. Newborn Screening: Newborn hearing screenings are typically performed in the hospital before the baby is discharged. The screening involves placing a small, painless earphone or probe in the baby’s ear to measure an auditory response to sound. If the screening results are abnormal, further diagnostic testing will be needed.
2. Well-Baby Visits: Routine hearing screenings are typically included as part of well-baby visits at three to four months, six months, nine months, twelve months, and 18 months of age. During these screenings, the pediatrician will use various methods to assess the child’s hearing, such as behavioral observations, visual reinforcement audiometry, and play audiometry.
3. School-Age Screenings: School-aged children should undergo hearing screenings every two to three years as recommended by their physician or hearing health professional.

What Happens If Your Child Fails a Hearing Screening?

If your child fails a hearing screening, your pediatrician will refer you to a hearing care professional who specializes in diagnosing and treating hearing loss in children. They will perform a comprehensive hearing evaluation to determine the extent and nature of the hearing loss. They will also recommend appropriate treatment options, which may include hearing aids, cochlear implants, or other interventions.

It is important to follow through with all recommendations and take action as soon as possible to prevent any delays in your child’s language, learning, and social development. Hearing health specialists can also provide guidance and support to help parents and caregivers understand their child’s hearing loss, offer communication tips, and make informed decisions about treatment options.

How to Prepare Your Child for a Hearing Screening

Most hearing screenings are quick, easy, and painless for children. However, some children may be anxious or fearful about the screening process, making it helpful to prepare them in advance. Here are some tips for preparing your child for a hearing screening:

• Explain what will happen: Explain to your child what to expect during the hearing screening, using age-appropriate language. Use visual aids or books about hearing tests to help them understand what will happen during the screening.
• Make it playful: Make the screening process playful by talking about it like a game and explaining that their ears will be listening to sounds.
• Bring a favorite toy: Some screening methods involve playing sounds or music to the child, which may be more fun and engaging if they have a favorite toy or comfort item with them.
• Practice good behavior: Encourage your child to sit still during the screening, so the test results are accurate.
• Stay calm and positive: Your child may pick up on any anxiety or stress that you are feeling. Stay calm and positive to help your child feel at ease.

Prioritizing Your Child’s Hearing Health

Pediatric hearing screenings are essential in identifying and treating hearing loss in children. Early detection and intervention can significantly improve language development, academic achievement, and social interaction, among other areas. Parents and caregivers can watch for the signs of hearing loss and prioritize their child’s hearing health.

If you think your child may have hearing loss, book comprehensive hearing evaluations and get support. We’re here to make sure you and your child get the right interventions and support so your little one can thrive.