Skip to main content

My child is having difficulties with their hearing

Child wearing hearing aid

If you have concerns about your child’s hearing, talk to your GP or Health Visitor about your child having a referral to see an audiologist for a hearing test.                                                                                                                       

Hearing difficulties in children can happen for a number of reasons. It could be temporary or a permanent condition and can be caused by a range of factors.

Some children might have normal hearing at birth but develop temporary hearing loss caused by illness or glue ear. Glue ear happens when the middle ear (behind the ear drum) becomes filled with fluid. This makes it harder for sound to pass the inner ear, making quieter sounds difficult to hear. It can affect one or both ears. Glue ear is very common - many children will experience it before the age of 10.

More unusually, a small number of children may experience a permanent hearing loss. This is usually diagnosed following the Newborn Hearing screen which is carried out within 4 weeks of their birth.

What to look out for

There are some signs that may indicate your child is experiencing hearing challenges.

  • They may not hear or respond to sudden loud noises such as a knock on the door or an object dropping on the floor
  • Not responding when their name is called
  • Frequently saying “huh?” or “what?” and needing repetition
  • Turning up the volume very loud on TV, music or electronic devices
  • Frequent ear infections
  • Paying more attention when facing the speaker
  • Speech may be unclear or delayed for their age
  • Hearing is worse when they have a cold.

Suggestions to help your child

  • Face your child when speaking so they can see your facial cues. Babies and toddlers benefit hugely from being face-to-face and having adults communicating with them at eye level
  • Reduce background noises such as the TV when possible
  • Get your child’s attention before starting to speak to them, e.g. touch their shoulder or arm
  • Use gestures and facial expressions to help their understanding
  • Try not to shout as words can be distorted when shouted, making it harder to understand.

Further information can be found on these websites:

Follow us: