Hearing loss in children: what parents should know
You know your child best. If something about their hearing worries you, trust that feeling and ask for a hearing test. It is painless and can be done at any age, even in the first days of life.
This page gives general information. It does not replace advice from a doctor.
Medical review in progress
Understanding hearing loss
Hearing loss can be mild, moderate, moderately severe, severe or profound. It can affect one ear or both.
It can be present at birth or appear later. These are the causes the World Health Organization lists most often for children.
| When | Possible causes |
|---|---|
| Before birth | Genetic factors. Infections during pregnancy, such as rubella and cytomegalovirus. |
| Around birth | Lack of oxygen at birth. |
| During childhood | Fluid in the ear and chronic ear infections. Meningitis and other infections. |
| At any age | Loud sounds. Some medicines that can harm the ear. Injury to the ear or head. Earwax blockage. |
World Health Organization, Deafness and hearing loss fact sheet, 3 March 2026.
Unsure about a word? See our glossary.
Signs to look for
| Age | Signs that deserve a hearing test |
|---|---|
| Birth to 3 months | Does not startle at sudden loud sounds. Does not calm or react to a familiar voice. |
| 4 to 6 months | Does not turn eyes or head toward a sound or a voice. Makes few sounds, or stops babbling. |
| 7 to 12 months | Does not respond to their name. Does not babble with varied sounds such as "ba-ba" or "ma-ma". |
| 1 to 2 years | Uses no single words by 18 months. Does not point to familiar things when you name them. |
| 2 to 4 years | Speech is hard to understand, or behind other children of the same age. Often says "what?". Wants the volume very high. |
| School age | Asks for things to be repeated. Watches faces closely to follow speech. Is very tired or withdrawn after school. Has trouble following in class. |
Children develop at different speeds, and these signs can have other causes. One sign alone does not mean your child has hearing loss. A hearing test gives a clear answer.
What to do if you are worried
- Write down what you have noticed, and when.
- Talk to your paediatrician or family doctor and ask for a hearing test.
- If questions remain, ask to see an ENT (ear, nose and throat) doctor or a children's audiologist.
- Do not wait and see. Earlier answers leave more options open.
- Write to us if you need help finding your way. We are not doctors, but we can point you to the right people.
Common questions
Can a baby's hearing really be tested?
Yes. Newborn hearing tests are quick and do not hurt. They are often done while the baby sleeps.
My child passed the newborn test. Can hearing loss appear later?
Yes. Hearing can change during childhood, for example after some infections. If you have doubts, ask for a new test.
Is hearing loss always permanent?
No. Some hearing loss, for example from fluid behind the eardrum, can be treated. Other forms are permanent, and children are supported with hearing technology, therapy and language support.
Hearing aids, cochlear implants, sign language: which is right for my child?
There is no single right answer. It depends on your child's hearing and on your family's choices. Specialists will explain the options, and many children use more than one.
Will my child go to a regular school?
Many children with hearing loss do, with the right support.
Protecting your child's hearing
- Keep vaccinations up to date.
- Have ear infections checked and treated.
- Keep headphone volume low and listening time short.
- Use ear protection at concerts, fireworks and other loud events.
General information based on the World Health Organization's Deafness and hearing loss fact sheet.