Toddlers go through different stages; some of them are more difficult than others. So, it can be difficult to pinpoint what’s wrong when a health issue crops up. If you think your toddler might be having difficulty hearing, there are some signs to look out for.
Take a look below for some of the top signs of hearing loss in children.
- Not Responding
Toddlers are well known for their selective hearing. However, sometimes these are signs of hearing loss, rather than ignorance. Does your toddler respond perfectly sometimes and ignore you at other times?
When you’re out of your child’s line of vision, is it more common for your toddler to not respond? Your child may be relying on your actions and lip-reading to communicate. It’s worth checking your child’s ears just for peace of mind.
- Asking for the Volume Up
Many kids enjoy listening to their favorite music or watching their favorite movies with the volume up. However, there’s a difference between enjoying the volume a little louder and needing the volume increased to hear properly. If it seems like your child can’t hear with the volume at a regular level, he may need his ears looked at.
Hearing clinics will be able to determine whether your child has hearing problems or not.
- Speaking Differently
Does your child’s speech sound different to you? Perhaps your child has started speaking loudly or slurring his words. Some toddlers revert to speaking like babies instead of using the language skills you know they have learned.
Again, it’s difficult to tell with children because several things can change their speech patterns. These include TV programs, the people they spend time with, and more. If you notice changes in your child’s speech patterns, it could be because of a hearing loss.
What to Do
If you think there is something wrong with your child’s ear, there are a few things you can rule out. Firstly, check your child’s ear for a wax build-up. If you notice a build-up you can ease it out with some steam and a cotton wool bud.
It’s also important to rule out an ear infection. Ear infections can make it difficult to hear temporarily and they are very common in young children. Fortunately, ear infections usually clear up within 3 days.
If your child still has symptoms, once you have ruled these out, it’s time to visit a hearing clinic. Talk to your child about what may happen and what he can expect. The technician will put him through a range of simple tests to determine the cause.
Don’t Ignore the Signs of Hearing Loss
The signs of hearing loss aren’t always easy to spot but when you come across them, it’s important to seek help. Getting a diagnosis for hearing loss could be exactly what your child needs to improve behavior, feel more secure and reach developmental milestones.