What age should a child have their first hearing test?
For many parents, questions about their child’s development can feel [...]
For many parents, questions about their child’s development can feel overwhelming. One of the most important areas to consider is hearing. Healthy hearing is the foundation for speech, language, learning, and social development. So when should a child have their first hearing test? The answer is simple: as early as possible.
Newborn Hearing Screening: The Ideal Starting Point
In Australia, most hospitals now provide newborn hearing screening before discharge. This quick and painless test helps detect any potential issues early. If, for any reason, your baby did not receive a newborn hearing test, it is important to arrange one promptly.
Early detection matters because babies begin responding to sound and speech from the very first days of life—and even during pregnancy. Their brains are primed to absorb sounds, making the first months a crucial window for auditory development.
What If the Newborn Hearing Test Was Missed?
If your child did not receive a newborn screen—perhaps due to a home birth or a busy hospital environment—it is not too late. At Harken Audiology in South Morang, we can assess children from as young as 9 months using specialised paediatric audiology techniques designed for babies and toddlers. Families in nearby suburbs can conveniently access our local clinic for children’s hearing assessments.
Recommended Hearing Test Timeline
Experts in paediatric audiology recommend the following guidelines:
-
Birth to 3 months: Newborn hearing screening
-
By 6 months: Diagnostic testing if screening raises concerns
-
9 months to 3 years: Age-appropriate behavioural hearing assessments if indicated
-
Before school entry: Comprehensive children’s hearing test
-
Ongoing through childhood: Periodic monitoring, especially if concerns arise
Signs That a Hearing Test Is Needed Immediately
Parents should seek a children’s hearing test without delay if they notice:
-
No startle response to loud sounds
-
Lack of response to voices by 6 months
-
Limited babbling or vocalisations by 12 months
-
Delayed or unclear speech
-
Frequent “what?” or turning up the television
-
Teachers raising concerns about attention or listening
Why Early Hearing Tests Are Important
Undiagnosed hearing loss can significantly affect communication skills, school performance, and self-confidence. Even mild hearing difficulties can be mistaken for behavioural or attention issues. Identifying concerns early through a paediatric hearing test ensures timely intervention and better long-term outcomes.
Child-Friendly Hearing Assessments
At Harken Audiology, hearing tests for children are designed to be engaging and stress-free. Babies and toddlers are assessed using play-based techniques, while older children complete assessments that feel like games. The process is safe, painless, and tailored to each child’s age and ability.
Next Steps if Hearing Loss Is Found
Discovering a hearing concern early is positive because it means treatment and support can begin straight away. Depending on the cause, management may include:
-
Ear wax removal
-
Medical treatment for ear infections
-
Fitting of children’s hearing aids
-
Speech therapy support
-
Educational support at school
Early intervention helps children develop strong communication and learning skills, setting them up for success.
Book a Children’s Hearing Test Today
If your baby did not receive a newborn hearing screening, or if you have any concerns about your child’s hearing, book an appointment without delay. Harken Audiology, South Morang, provides hearing tests for children from 9 months of age. We also offer flexible online booking and after-hours appointments for families across Doreen, Mernda, Epping, Wollert, Plenty, Yarrambat, and surrounding northern suburbs of Melbourne.
Every child deserves to clearly hear their parent’s voice, their friends’ laughter, and the world around them. Early testing ensures those sounds are never missed.
Harken Audiology is an independent local practice providing hearing care for children and adults. We test children from 9 months of age and are committed to supporting families with compassionate, professional care.
What age should a child have their first hearing test?
For many parents, questions about their child’s development can feel [...]
For many parents, questions about their child’s development can feel overwhelming. One of the most important areas to consider is hearing. Healthy hearing is the foundation for speech, language, learning, and social development. So when should a child have their first hearing test? The answer is simple: as early as possible.
Newborn Hearing Screening: The Ideal Starting Point
In Australia, most hospitals now provide newborn hearing screening before discharge. This quick and painless test helps detect any potential issues early. If, for any reason, your baby did not receive a newborn hearing test, it is important to arrange one promptly.
Early detection matters because babies begin responding to sound and speech from the very first days of life—and even during pregnancy. Their brains are primed to absorb sounds, making the first months a crucial window for auditory development.
What If the Newborn Hearing Test Was Missed?
If your child did not receive a newborn screen—perhaps due to a home birth or a busy hospital environment—it is not too late. At Harken Audiology in South Morang, we can assess children from as young as 9 months using specialised paediatric audiology techniques designed for babies and toddlers. Families in nearby suburbs can conveniently access our local clinic for children’s hearing assessments.
Recommended Hearing Test Timeline
Experts in paediatric audiology recommend the following guidelines:
-
Birth to 3 months: Newborn hearing screening
-
By 6 months: Diagnostic testing if screening raises concerns
-
9 months to 3 years: Age-appropriate behavioural hearing assessments if indicated
-
Before school entry: Comprehensive children’s hearing test
-
Ongoing through childhood: Periodic monitoring, especially if concerns arise
Signs That a Hearing Test Is Needed Immediately
Parents should seek a children’s hearing test without delay if they notice:
-
No startle response to loud sounds
-
Lack of response to voices by 6 months
-
Limited babbling or vocalisations by 12 months
-
Delayed or unclear speech
-
Frequent “what?” or turning up the television
-
Teachers raising concerns about attention or listening
Why Early Hearing Tests Are Important
Undiagnosed hearing loss can significantly affect communication skills, school performance, and self-confidence. Even mild hearing difficulties can be mistaken for behavioural or attention issues. Identifying concerns early through a paediatric hearing test ensures timely intervention and better long-term outcomes.
Child-Friendly Hearing Assessments
At Harken Audiology, hearing tests for children are designed to be engaging and stress-free. Babies and toddlers are assessed using play-based techniques, while older children complete assessments that feel like games. The process is safe, painless, and tailored to each child’s age and ability.
Next Steps if Hearing Loss Is Found
Discovering a hearing concern early is positive because it means treatment and support can begin straight away. Depending on the cause, management may include:
-
Ear wax removal
-
Medical treatment for ear infections
-
Fitting of children’s hearing aids
-
Speech therapy support
-
Educational support at school
Early intervention helps children develop strong communication and learning skills, setting them up for success.
Book a Children’s Hearing Test Today
If your baby did not receive a newborn hearing screening, or if you have any concerns about your child’s hearing, book an appointment without delay. Harken Audiology, South Morang, provides hearing tests for children from 9 months of age. We also offer flexible online booking and after-hours appointments for families across Doreen, Mernda, Epping, Wollert, Plenty, Yarrambat, and surrounding northern suburbs of Melbourne.
Every child deserves to clearly hear their parent’s voice, their friends’ laughter, and the world around them. Early testing ensures those sounds are never missed.
Harken Audiology is an independent local practice providing hearing care for children and adults. We test children from 9 months of age and are committed to supporting families with compassionate, professional care.
What age should a child have their first hearing test?
What age should a child have their first hearing test?
For many parents, questions about their child’s development can feel [...]
For many parents, questions about their child’s development can feel overwhelming. One of the most important areas to consider is hearing. Healthy hearing is the foundation for speech, language, learning, and social development. So when should a child have their first hearing test? The answer is simple: as early as possible.
Newborn Hearing Screening: The Ideal Starting Point
In Australia, most hospitals now provide newborn hearing screening before discharge. This quick and painless test helps detect any potential issues early. If, for any reason, your baby did not receive a newborn hearing test, it is important to arrange one promptly.
Early detection matters because babies begin responding to sound and speech from the very first days of life—and even during pregnancy. Their brains are primed to absorb sounds, making the first months a crucial window for auditory development.
What If the Newborn Hearing Test Was Missed?
If your child did not receive a newborn screen—perhaps due to a home birth or a busy hospital environment—it is not too late. At Harken Audiology in South Morang, we can assess children from as young as 9 months using specialised paediatric audiology techniques designed for babies and toddlers. Families in nearby suburbs can conveniently access our local clinic for children’s hearing assessments.
Recommended Hearing Test Timeline
Experts in paediatric audiology recommend the following guidelines:
-
Birth to 3 months: Newborn hearing screening
-
By 6 months: Diagnostic testing if screening raises concerns
-
9 months to 3 years: Age-appropriate behavioural hearing assessments if indicated
-
Before school entry: Comprehensive children’s hearing test
-
Ongoing through childhood: Periodic monitoring, especially if concerns arise
Signs That a Hearing Test Is Needed Immediately
Parents should seek a children’s hearing test without delay if they notice:
-
No startle response to loud sounds
-
Lack of response to voices by 6 months
-
Limited babbling or vocalisations by 12 months
-
Delayed or unclear speech
-
Frequent “what?” or turning up the television
-
Teachers raising concerns about attention or listening
Why Early Hearing Tests Are Important
Undiagnosed hearing loss can significantly affect communication skills, school performance, and self-confidence. Even mild hearing difficulties can be mistaken for behavioural or attention issues. Identifying concerns early through a paediatric hearing test ensures timely intervention and better long-term outcomes.
Child-Friendly Hearing Assessments
At Harken Audiology, hearing tests for children are designed to be engaging and stress-free. Babies and toddlers are assessed using play-based techniques, while older children complete assessments that feel like games. The process is safe, painless, and tailored to each child’s age and ability.
Next Steps if Hearing Loss Is Found
Discovering a hearing concern early is positive because it means treatment and support can begin straight away. Depending on the cause, management may include:
-
Ear wax removal
-
Medical treatment for ear infections
-
Fitting of children’s hearing aids
-
Speech therapy support
-
Educational support at school
Early intervention helps children develop strong communication and learning skills, setting them up for success.
Book a Children’s Hearing Test Today
If your baby did not receive a newborn hearing screening, or if you have any concerns about your child’s hearing, book an appointment without delay. Harken Audiology, South Morang, provides hearing tests for children from 9 months of age. We also offer flexible online booking and after-hours appointments for families across Doreen, Mernda, Epping, Wollert, Plenty, Yarrambat, and surrounding northern suburbs of Melbourne.
Every child deserves to clearly hear their parent’s voice, their friends’ laughter, and the world around them. Early testing ensures those sounds are never missed.
Harken Audiology is an independent local practice providing hearing care for children and adults. We test children from 9 months of age and are committed to supporting families with compassionate, professional care.
