HEARING
and its affect on speech and language development
Conductive hearing loss
A hearing loss that is caused by a build up of matter, usually fluid or wax in the middle ear. It can often be corrected through medical procedures such as cleaning of the ear, medication, and/or surgery.
Sensorineural hearing loss
A hearing loss that is caused by damage to the nerves. It can be a progressive hereditary condition. It can be noise induced, or a child can be born with the condition. It is corrected through the use of hearing aides, signing, lip reading, and occasionally through a surgical procedure.
CHILDREN LEARN TO SPEAK WHAT THEY HEAR
If they cannot hear well, it will be difficult for them to speak well
How can parents recognize
if their child has a hearing loss?
Watch for these symptons:
Showing delayed response or no response when spoken to.......Turning up the sound on the TV.......Complaints that the ear hurts.......Being overactive or uncooperative.......Irritability.......Saying "huh?" or "what?" often.......Difficulty paying attention.......Pulling on ear.......Not following directions well.......Poor sleep
WHAT SHOULD PARENTS DO
if they think their child has a hearing loss?
Take the child to see an Ear, Nose and Throat Specialist
Have the child's hearing tested by an audiologist