Why Early Detection Is So Important

Hearing plays a fundamental role in a child's ability to develop language, communication, and social skills. The first few years of life are a critical window — often called the "sensitive period" — during which the brain is especially primed to learn from sound and language input.

When hearing loss goes undetected and untreated, it can affect speech and language development, academic performance, social confidence, and emotional wellbeing. The earlier hearing loss is identified, the sooner support can be put in place — and the better the long-term outcomes.

Newborn Hearing Screening

In many countries, newborns are offered a routine hearing screening shortly after birth — often before leaving the hospital. This typically involves an Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE) test or an Automated Auditory Brainstem Response (AABR) test, both of which are quick, painless, and performed while the baby sleeps.

If a baby doesn't pass the initial screen, it doesn't necessarily mean they have permanent hearing loss — it means further testing is needed. Parents should follow up promptly with any recommended appointments.

Developmental Milestones to Watch

Even if a newborn passes the hearing screen, hearing loss can develop or worsen over time. Being aware of typical hearing and communication milestones helps parents spot potential concerns early.

Birth to 3 Months

  • Startles at sudden loud noises
  • Calms or smiles when spoken to
  • Appears to recognise parent's voice

3 to 6 Months

  • Turns eyes or head toward sounds
  • Responds to music or familiar voices
  • Begins to babble and make sounds

6 to 12 Months

  • Responds to own name
  • Understands simple words like "no" and "bye-bye"
  • Babbling becomes more varied (different sounds and tones)

12 to 24 Months

  • Says first words (around 12 months)
  • Uses 2-word phrases by around 24 months
  • Points to objects or pictures when named
  • Follows simple instructions

2 to 5 Years

  • Speech becomes increasingly understandable to strangers
  • Uses sentences and asks questions
  • Can follow 2–3 step instructions

Warning Signs That Warrant Evaluation

At any age, the following signs should prompt a referral for hearing assessment:

  • Not responding to their name being called
  • Frequently asking for things to be repeated
  • Watching faces and lips intently when spoken to
  • Turning up the TV to very loud volumes
  • Speech that is difficult to understand or delayed compared to peers
  • Seeming inattentive or easily distracted — sometimes mistaken for attention difficulties
  • Complaints of earache, ear discharge, or a feeling of pressure in the ears
  • Frequent ear infections (otitis media)

Common Causes of Hearing Loss in Children

  • Glue ear (otitis media with effusion): Fluid builds up in the middle ear, causing temporary hearing loss — extremely common in young children
  • Ear infections: Recurrent infections can affect hearing temporarily or, in rare cases, permanently
  • Genetic factors: Hearing loss can be inherited, even without a family history of noticeable hearing problems
  • Premature birth or birth complications: These can increase the risk of hearing difficulties
  • Infections during pregnancy: Such as rubella or cytomegalovirus (CMV)
  • Certain medications: Some drugs taken during pregnancy or in infancy can be ototoxic

What Happens After Diagnosis?

If a child is diagnosed with hearing loss, a team of specialists — including an audiologist, ENT doctor, speech and language therapist, and potentially an educational specialist — will work together to create a support plan. Depending on the type and degree of hearing loss, this may include:

  • Hearing aids fitted specifically for children
  • Cochlear implants (for profound hearing loss)
  • Bone-anchored hearing devices
  • Speech and language therapy
  • School support plans and specialist educational resources

Trust Your Instincts

Parents often notice something is different before a formal diagnosis confirms it. If you have concerns about your child's hearing, don't wait — request a hearing evaluation. There is no such thing as checking "too early," and early action always leads to better outcomes.