My speechie won’t assess until a hearing test has been completed- they can hear me!
Image by @benmullins on Unsplash
It can be easy to assume that since your child can hear you, then their hearing is within the expected limits. However, having your child's hearing tested before addressing speech and language concerns is crucial because hearing plays a fundamental role in language development. Hearing loss or impairment can significantly impact a child's ability to acquire and develop speech and language skills. Sometimes, this can be incredibly subtle, or you may not even realise some of the compensatory strategies you put in place that aides your child’s hearing—for example, turning down auditory distractors in the environment before initiating communication with them. Early identification of hearing difficulties is essential to ensure appropriate intervention and support for the child's overall communication development.
Here are several reasons why it is important to have your child's hearing tested:
1. Hearing is Critical for Language Acquisition: Hearing is the primary channel through which children learn and develop language. A child with hearing difficulties may miss or misunderstand sounds, words, and language input, leading to delays in language development.
2. Early Intervention is Key: The earlier hearing loss is identified, the sooner intervention can be provided. Early intervention is critical for supporting language development during the critical period when the brain is most receptive to language learning.
3. Hearing Loss Can Be Unnoticed: In some cases, hearing loss in young children may not be immediately apparent, especially if the loss is mild or unilateral (affecting one ear). Regular hearing screenings help identify potential hearing issues that may not be otherwise noticed.
4. Avoiding Frustration and Delays: Undetected hearing loss can lead to frustration for the child, as they may struggle to understand others or express themselves. Addressing hearing difficulties early can prevent delays in language development and communication skills.
5. Differentiating Hearing Loss from Language Delays: Hearing loss can sometimes be mistaken for language delays, as the child may not respond to sounds or follow instructions. Conducting a hearing test can help distinguish between the two and provide appropriate interventions.
6. Tailoring Intervention: If hearing loss is identified, it allows for the development of personalised intervention strategies that address both the hearing impairment and any potential language delays.
7. Ensuring Academic Success: Hearing difficulties can impact a child's educational progress. Early identification and management of hearing loss can improve their ability to participate in classroom learning and academic success.
8. Hearing and Speech Connection: Hearing is essential for speech development. Children with hearing loss may have difficulty producing speech sounds correctly because they cannot hear the sounds accurately.
For these reasons, it is recommended that all newborns receive a hearing screening shortly after birth. Additionally, regular hearing screenings should be conducted during infancy and early childhood, especially if there are any concerns about speech and language development.
If you have concerns about your child's speech and language development, getting their hearing tested early is a crucial step in ensuring appropriate support and intervention for their communication needs. A paediatrician or an audiologist can perform hearing assessments to identify any hearing difficulties and provide appropriate guidance based on the results.
Author: Rebecca Broadfoot
Speech and Language Pathologist here at With You Allied Health
To see more about Bec, click here.
To find out more about our speech services, click here.