Signs a child may have hearing loss

Mild, progressive or temporary deafness may be difficult to identify.  Children often adapt extremely well, for example, by learning to lip-read. 

However, any hearing loss, even if it’s temporary or mild, can have a big impact, particularly in the early years when children are developing their speech and language skills.

Glue ear, although usually temporary, affects a child’s ability to hear. Temporary hearing loss can easily be mistaken for stubbornness or being naughty.

Look out for the following signs which may indicate glue ear, mild or progressive deafness.

• Changes in behaviour for example becoming withdrawn or frustrated.
• Red ears in babies and/or pulling at their ears.
• Delayed speech and communication development.
• Mishearing and mispronouncing words.
• Not hearing what's going on if there's background noise.
• Not responding when called.
• Problems with concentrating, tiredness and frustration that affects their behaviour.
• Difficulties with reading and learning.
• May have the volume of the TV higher than other members of your family.