Hearing issues in kids
If your child is experiencing health or learning issues, hearing loss may not be the first thing that comes to mind—but it should be.
When a child seems distracted or struggles to follow directions, hearing may be part of the picture. Hearing difficulties can affect learning, speech and communication.
When your child seems distracted, maybe isn’t following directions or starts struggling in school, hearing loss probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind. But often what looks like an attention issue may actually be a hearing issue.
That’s why hearing screenings are so important. Public schools screen elementary-age students every other year. If your child doesn’t pass his or her screening, don’t panic. A school screening is designed to identify children who may need further evaluation—not diagnose hearing loss. This is where a more sophisticated and comprehensive hearing test comes in.
At Amanda’s Family Hearing, we evaluate children ages 5 and older using diagnostic testing that provides a much clearer picture of how well a child is hearing. Establishing a baseline can also be valuable for comparison if concerns develop later.
Parents can watch for clues at home. Maybe your child frequently says, “what?” or seems not to listen. Grades might start slipping. Speech may become less clear or certain articulation errors might be happening.
Frequent ear infections are another reason to pay attention. Children’s Eustachian tubes are naturally flatter than adults’, making it more difficult for fluid to drain from the middle ear. This can make kids more susceptible to infections and temporary hearing problems.
Ear tugging, crankiness, drainage, crustiness or even an unusual odor can signal something is going on. Children who have had tubes placed or recently removed may also benefit from testing if their hearing doesn’t seem to rebound as expected.
Hearing is closely connected to speech, language, learning and social development. The sooner we detect an issue, the better the long-term outcomes.
There’s no downside to having more information. A hearing evaluation can uncover something that needs attention or provide reassurance that everything is right on track.
Either way, you’ve taken an important step toward helping your child hear, learn and communicate confidently.
Amanda’s Family Hearing is located at 1701 Mentor Avenue, Suite 5, in Painesville. Call 440-357-4327 or visit AmandasFamilyHearing.com for more information.
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