Title: Early Hearing Detection Can Prevent Serious Impact in Learning
Hearing is a critical component of language development, communication, learning and social skills. In the United States more children are born with hearing loss than any other congenital health issue. According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, various studies estimate that between one to six per 1,000 newborns are born with hearing loss. 90 percent of the children are born to hearing parents who have no experience raising a child with hearing loss.
There are several ways in which hearing loss affects children’s ability to learn. Vocabulary develops more slowly in children who have hearing loss. Children with hearing loss have difficulty understanding words with multiple meanings and have difficult learning the meaning to more complex words.
Hearing loss also affects children’s ability to speak. Children with hearing loss may not hear their own voices when they speak and may speak too loudly or not loud enough.
Children with hearing loss have difficulty with all areas of academic achievement, especially reading and mathematical concepts. In fact, a recent study indicated that children with mild to moderate hearing losses, on average, rank one to four grade levels lower than their peers with normal hearing.
The earlier hearing loss occurs in a child’s life, the more serious the effects on the child’s development. Similarly, the earlier the problem is identified and intervention is begun, the less serious the ultimate impact. If you have any concern about your child’s ability to hear, don’t hesitate to contact Advanced Hearing Centers, (404) 943-900 for a free consultation.