A kid’s hearing test is a set of age-appropriate checks that check how well they hear various sounds. Newborns often get two quick, painless screenings known as otoacoustic emissions (OAE) or auditory brainstem response (ABR).
These tests are usually before one month old. If they don’t pass, further testing should be done before three months, often using ABR again.
If you suspect your child could be hard of hearing, the specialist you will want to take them to is a peadiatric audiologist who may sometimes be assisted by an audiometrist. Learn more about what they do on this page: https://dsaudiology.sg/paediatric-audiometry/.
Toddlers aged six months to two years may have visual reinforcement audiometry (VRA), where they turn toward a sound and get rewarded by a toy or light. Preschool-aged children (about 2½–6 years) often do play audiometry, responding by games like placing a peg when they hear a tone.
From age four, they move to standard pure-tone tests, raising a hand or pressing a button at each tone. Tests also include tympanometry to check middle-ear health and otoacoustic emissions to assess inner-ear function.
How to Tell if your Child Needs a Hearing Test?
Hearing loss is the most common sensory deficit in children. If not checked, it can cause speech delays, learning difficulties and social challenges. If your child failed newborn screening, or if you, teachers or doctors have concerns you may want to ask; how to tell if your child need hearing test? To know if your child needs a hearing test, check for these red flags;
Sure. Here’s a smoother, more connected version with six points, each discussed in 50–53 words:
- Delayed reactions to sound: If your baby doesn’t startle at loud noises or turn toward your voice by six months, it could mean they aren’t hearing well. Early hearing helps shape brain development. Missed reactions at this stage may lead to delays in speech and bonding, so it’s best to get things checked early.
- Speech or language delays: Children usually start babbling by six months and say simple words by one year. If your child isn’t meeting these milestones or struggles to form clear words, hearing loss could be a cause. Difficulty hearing sounds makes it hard to imitate speech correctly, which affects both speaking and understanding language.
- Listening habits and behaviours: Needing the TV loud, sitting too close to speakers, or regularly asking “what?” may point to hearing issues. These behaviours help them catch sound more clearly, often without them realising why. If your child seems to miss your voice unless you raise it, a hearing test could be worthwhile.
- Trouble at school or social settings: Some children with hearing loss seem inattentive, struggle to follow instructions or fall behind academically. They may avoid group play or appear withdrawn. Teachers often spot these patterns first. Since learning and friendships rely on listening, hearing loss at this stage can affect self-confidence and performance if left unaddressed.
- History of ear problems or illness: Children with repeated ear infections, fluid buildup (glue ear), or viral illnesses may develop temporary or long-term hearing loss. Those exposed to loud sounds, head injuries or second-hand smoke face even higher risks. If there’s a family history of hearing issues, even without symptoms, it’s smart to book a check-up.
- Known developmental conditions: Kids with autism, Down syndrome or other neurodevelopmental conditions have a higher chance of hearing problems. Sometimes the symptoms overlap, so hearing loss might go unnoticed. Testing ensures that speech or learning delays aren’t made worse by an unrecognised hearing issue.
What to Bring to your Child’s Hearing Test Appointment?
During your kid’s hearing test, the audiologist will use age-suitable tools to check responses to sounds, tones, or speech. They may also examine the middle ear using gentle air pressure. Here’s what to bring to the appointment:
- Insurance card and referral information: Bring your child’s insurance card and any referral letters or documents from your GP or paediatrician. These speed up the check-in process and make sure the clinic has all the information they need to proceed. Without them, your appointment may be delayed or rescheduled, especially if approval is needed first.
- Comfort items: Unfamiliar settings can be stressful for children. A soft toy, favourite blanket, or even a dummy can help them feel more at ease. These small comforts create a sense of safety, which can make the test go smoother and reduce anxiety during quieter parts of the exam where calm is important.
- Snacks and drinks: Some tests involve waiting or breaks between steps, so pack a small snack and water bottle for your child. Even a few bites of fruit or crackers can help avoid restlessness or crankiness. Don’t forget something for yourself too—keeping everyone calm and energised makes the whole process much easier.
- Medical history information: Be ready to share details like past ear infections, hearing issues in the family, allergies or any medications your child takes. If your child has developmental concerns or speech delays, that’s important too. Having this on hand allows the audiologist to tailor the test and give more accurate feedback.
- Questions: Before the appointment, jot down anything you’ve wondered about. It doesn’t matter whether it’s your child’s speech patterns, how the test works, or next steps after results. Asking questions helps you feel informed and confident. It also gives the audiologist a better idea of your concerns and expectations going into the appointment.
- Proper clothing: Dress your child in comfortable clothes with easy access to their ears. Avoid anything with hoods, big collars, or tight headbands. The audiologist may need to place headphones or small probes near or inside the ear, so soft, simple clothing can prevent distractions and help the process go more smoothly.
Closing Thoughts
Even as you prepare your baby for their kid’s hearing test, keep in mind that your mood sets the tone. If you’re calm, your child will likely feel more settled too.
So, be sure to stay relaxed, smile often, and offer reassurance if they seem unsure. Even if delays happen or your child fidgets, try to keep your cool to help the session move forward more smoothly and build your child’s trust.
If you’re concerned about your child’s hearing, don’t wait. A quick test can make all the difference in their speech, learning and social development. Book an appointment with our paediatric audiologist today to get clear answers and the right support. Call or visit us at;
D&S Audiology – Audiologist | Hearing Aid Singapore
12 Woodlands Square, #13-73 Woods Square Tower 1, Singapore 737715
Phone: +65 8044 9632
