Why early hearing matters
For babies and children, hearing plays a crucial role in speech and language development and in the way they understand the world. Children begin responding to voices and environmental sounds from a very early stage.
When hearing loss is suspected or identified, timely assessment and family-centred intervention can provide more opportunities for listening, communication and learning.
Possible signs to discuss
- A baby does not startle or respond consistently to sound.
- A child does not turn towards voices or familiar sounds.
- Speech or language development appears delayed.
- The child frequently asks for repetition or increases television volume.
- Teachers notice attention, listening or classroom communication difficulty.
Support for children and families
Depending on the child's assessed needs, support may include hearing tests, hearing aids, cochlear implant assessment, auditory habilitation, speech and language therapy, classroom recommendations and continuing reviews.
Parents, caregivers, siblings and teachers may be included in the care plan so that listening and communication goals continue beyond the clinic.