Genesee County Health Department

Better Life Through Better Health

From birth to five years of age, children absorb language like a sponge. That’s why good hearing in children is essential and you should be aware of problems early. Hearing loss that is not caught and treated early in life can affect your child’s growth, learning and development in many ways. Speech, language and thinking skills may not develop normally. Social and emotional growth can be affected.

All children should have their hearing tested by trained personnel. A child may have serious hearing loss without being deaf. Hearing loss can be in only one ear or affect just part of hearing, such as certain tones and frequency levels. Talking to a child may not be enough to detect some types of hearing loss. Special equipment may need to be used by a trained technician. With early medical help, many hearing defects can be corrected before they become severe. A hearing specialist should be seen at the first sign of a problem. Warning signs to look for are:

• Often asks for questions and directions to be repeated. Say’s "huh" or "what" a lot.

• Tilts head to the side when listening.

• Seems inattentive or disruptive, especially during activities that require listening.

• Complains of ear pain.

• Shows a problem with correct use of language and/or inability to read and understand.

• Turns up the volume on radios, televisions or similar equipment to hear it.

• Does not respond to loud sounds.

• "Shuffles" his or her feet while walking. Has poor balance.

• Displays behavior problems. May "daydream" or withdraw from social activities.

• Talks very loudly or softly.

If you have questions or concerns about your child’s hearing, call the Genesee County Health Department's Hearing and Vision Program at 257-3612.