Communication IS the Key to Life!

At North Words, we firmly believe that communication is the 'Key to Life'.  Hearing properly is an important part of learning speech and language.  When a hearing loss exists, a child does not get the full benefit of language learning experiences.  If a hearing loss goes unnoticed, delays in speech and language learning can occur.  For this reason, early detection of a hearing loss is very important

The information on this page is meant as a guide to help you determine if your preschooler is hearing properly.  It includes information on ear infections, warning signs, stages of development [milestones], and when to call for help. 

Middle ear infections [otitis media] are common in young children, usually from birth to the age of three.  Acute ear infections can be painful and typically start with a cold.  However, in most children, they resolve quickly.  

Ear infections with fluid, called otitis media with effusion [OME], are a different story.  With OME, fluid fills the middle ear, interfering with a child's ability to hear.  This can result in a mild or fluctuating hearing loss.  OME can last anywhere from a few weeks to several months.  Frequently, there are no symptoms such as fever, pain or fluid draining from the ears.  The only telltale sign is hearing loss, if present.  However, if there is a hearing loss, it can be hard to detect.  In fact, a study found that 60 per cent of the time parents were unaware of a hearing problem in their children with OME.

Speech and hearing go together - a problem with one could mean a problem with the other.  Recurring ear infections can place your child at a greater risk of developing speech and language problems.  Middle ear infections require the attention of a physician and permanent hearing loss can occur if left unattended.

If you notice your child is inattentive, pulling or scratching his/her ears, has redness around the ears, wants the volume on the radio or television louder than usual, or is irritable and/or listless, see your physician as soon as possible.

Possible signs that may indicate your child has a hearing problem include:

• stops early babbling
• fluid drains from the ears
• pulls his/her ears [with fever or crankiness]
• has a lot of colds and ear infections
• does not respond when called
• speaks loudly
• not saying single words by 12 months
• frequently asks for words or phrases to be repeated
• does not understand someone unless the person is facing him/her
• turns up the volume of the TV or radio, disturbing other listeners.

Up to 6 months
From birth to 6 months your child should:

• be startles, cry or awaken to loud sounds
• move his/her head, eyes, arms, or legs in response to a noise or a voice
• smile when spoken to
• respond to music

7-12 months
From 7 to 12 months, your child should:

• turn or look up when his/her name is called, even if you cannot be seen
• occasionally start of jump when there is a very loud sound
• respond to requests such as "want more" or "come here"
• be able to point to or look at everyday objects on request such as "bottle"

1-2 years
From 1 to 2 years, you child should:

• turn toward you when you call his/her name from behind
• begin to repeat some of the sounds you make
• try to "talk" by pointing, reaching and making noises
• recognize sounds like ringing telephone
• point to at least one part of his/her body [eyes, feet, etc.] when asked AND without being to see your lips

2-3 years
From 2 to 3 years, your child should:

• listen to a simple story
• follow two sequential requests such as "get the ball and put it on the table"
• give you a toy, or put a block on the table or chair, when you ask and without being able to see your lips

3-4 years
From 3 to 4 years, your child should:

• hear you when you call from  another room or hear a whisper and repeat it
• listen to the television at the same volume as the rest of the family
• answer simple questions
• use sentences with four or more words

4-5 years
From 4 to 5 years, your child should:

• pay attention to a story and answer simple questions
• tell a story about himself/herself
• talk easily with other children and adults

No child is too young to have his/her hearing tested.  If you think your child may have a hearing problem:

• talk to your family physician who may refer your child to an ear, nose and throat doctor and/or audiologist
• call an audiologist at your children's hospital or other community health program or clinic

An audiologist can assess the severity of any hearing loss, even in a very young or difficult-to-test child.  Call your local Northwestern Health Unit if you would like your child to visit the audiologist.

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