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Checklist for Infant/Toddler Hearing

 

 

It is important to recognize the signs of hearing loss in infants and toddlers as early as possible. The most critical period for speech and language development is from birth to four years of age.

 

Parents are often the first people to sense that their child has a hearing problem. Observe your child's development from infancy on. If you suspect a problem, do not delay in getting your child's hearing tested. All infants and toddlers can be given a thorough hearing evaluation. It's never too early to seek professional help.

 

At 6 weeks, when there is a sudden noise, do they

 

  • Jump or blink?

  • Stir in their sleep?

  • Stop sucking for a moment?

  • Look up from sucking?

  • Cry?

 

At 3 to 4 months, do they

 

  • Blink to cry when there is a sudden noise?

  • Stop crying or sucking when you talk?

  • Wake or stir to loud sounds?

  • Coo or smile when you talk?

  • Turn their eyes toward voices?

  • Seem to like a musical toy?

  • Startle at loud noises?

  • Calm at the sound of a familiar voice?

  • Respond to your voice (smiles or coos)?

 

4 to 9 months

 

  • Turn eyes toward source of familiar sounds?

  • Smile when spoken to?

  • Notice rattles and other sound-making toys?

  • Cry differently for different needs?

  • Make babbling sounds?

  • Seem to understand simple word/hand motions such as "bye-bye" with a wave?

 

9 to 15 months

 

  • Babble a lot of different sounds?

  • Respond to his/her name?

  • Respond to changes in your tone of voice?

  • Say "ma-ma" or "da-da"?

  • Understand simple requests?

  • Repeat some sounds you make?

  • Use his/her voice to attract attention?

 

15-24 months

 

  • Point to familiar objects when they are named?

  • Listen to stories, songs and rhymes?

  • Follow simple commands? Use several different words?

  • Point to body parts when asked?

  • Name common objects?

  • Put two or more words together?

 

You should see most of the behaviours listed above at approximately the age ranges shown. If you do not, contact us to schedule a hearing evaluation for your child.

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