Language and speech development can be impaired by hearing loss, especially in the first three years of life, according to the Hearing, Speech & Deafness Center. Onset of a hearing problem in older children may result in poor academic progress. If your family has a history of hearing loss, your children may be especially at risk. If your child displays signs of hearing problems, parents should seek the help of an audiologist for evaluation.
Physical
A child with a history of ear-related health problems may experience hearing loss even if you don't observe any obvious signs. Frequent ear infections, earaches or runny discharge from the ears are warning signs. You should also take heed if your child complains of pain in the ears or if she frequently pulls on or scratches her ears.
Development
A child may start developing language and speech skills normally and then stop making progress. This could be due to the onset of a hearing problem. Poor hearing can also lead to lack of academic progress. Children with poor speech skills or who talk very little may have difficulty hearing.
Responses
How your child responds to sounds is an important clue to possible hearing problems. Signs include confusing sounds and frequently giving inappropriate or inconsistent responses in conversation. If a child doesn't respond when addressed or if you find yourself forced to talk in a loud voice to get a response, a hearing problem may be the cause.
Coping Mechanisms
Children will try, even unconsciously, to adapt to their circumstances. For example, if you see that your child watches your face very closely when you talk or has a habit of turning one ear toward you, there may be a problem. If a child often asks you to repeat something you said he may not be hearing you. Another sign is if he consistently turns the volume up to a high level when watching television or using other audio equipment.
Behavior
Not being able to hear is a frustrating experience and is likely to affect your child's behavior. Signs include extremely withdrawn or extremely active behavior. Lack of hearing may also lead to apparent lack of attention to you and to teachers. Children with hearing problems may be easily distracted or have short attention spans.
