Project for New Mexico Children and Youth Who Are Deafblind Fact Sheets

General Information: Hearing Development

Who can develop a hearing problem?
Any child can be born with or develop a hearing problem. Some infants have a greater risk of having a hearing loss (see Risk Factors?) These children should have their hearing tested as soon after birth as possible.
How can I tell if my child has a hearing problem?
Infants respond to sound in very predictable ways. See the Listening, Speech and Language Development Guidelines. If your child fails 2 or more items for their developmental age, the a hearing test is indicated.
When can I have my child's hearing evaluated?
A child's hearing can be tested at any time after birth. If you suspect or are concerned that your child might have a problem hearing, contact your child's physician or an audiologist. An audiologist is a professional trained to evaluate hearing and can test your child at any age.
Why is hearing so important?
Hearing is necessary for learning to talk. Your baby hears sounds and words beginning at birth that are the basics for speech and language development.
If you think your baby may have a hearing problem, DON'T WAIT, talk to your baby's doctor NOW

0 - 4 months
- Startles to loud sounds
- Quiets to the sound of a familiar voice
4 - 6 months
- Turns toward or looks for a familiar or new sound.
- Likes rattles and toys that make sounds.
6 - 12 months
- Turns or looks up when called by name.
- Imitates sounds and pitches.
- Understands the meaning of "no" and "bye bye".
- Uses voice to get attention.
12 - 18 months
- Uses 4 - 5 words by 18 months.
- Points to at least 1 body part when asked.
- Understands 1-step commands such as "Get me your diaper", or "Close the door."
18 - 24 months
- Uses 12 - 17 words by age 2 years.
- Likes music.
- Points to familiar objects when you name them.
- Puts 2 words together by age 2 years.
24 - 36 months
- Uses 200 words by age 3 years
- Listens to radio or television at same loudness as other people.
- Hears when called from another room.
- Uses 2 -3 word sentences.
- Strangers understand most of your child's speech.

If you have concerns about your child's hearing, contact your doctor or nurse about having a hearing screening.

Project for New Mexico Children and Youth Who Are Deaf-Blind
(877) 614-4051

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