 |
|
 |
 |
      |
||
Hearing problems in childrenDisclaimer: This fact sheet is for educational use only. Please consult your doctor or other health professional to make sure this information is right for your child. Key points to remember
 Back to TopWhat are the signs of a hearing problem? If your child has speech or language difficulties, has trouble
following instructions, is easily distracted or has difficulty paying
attention in class they may have a hearing problem. These symptoms may
vary from time to time. For babies, there is a checklist at the National Screening Unit website - Can your baby hear? (at right).
You can arrange for a full hearing assessment for your child at the audiology department of your local hospital.
A smelly discharge from your child's ear could indicate a serious health problem. You should visit your family doctor immediately if you notice this. If your child does have a hearing problem, finding it early is good for their learning and development. Back to TopWhat will it cost if my child has a hearing problem?You will not have to pay to have your child's hearing assessed at
the hospital audiology clinic. You may need a referral for your child
from your family doctor and.there may be a wait before your child is
seen. There is likely to be a charge if you visit a local private
audiologist.
Support for children with hearing loss or auditory processing
disorders is available free of charge. Hearing aids, cochlear implants
and other devices for children are provided free.
Back to TopWhere to go for more informationRelated fact sheets Hearing and vision checks for babiesHearing and vision checks for young children Hearing and vision checks for older children Ears: Ear infections - brief version Using language socially - an important skill
Other websites HealthEd www.healthed.govt.nz HealthEd is a catalogue of health resources from the Ministry of Health. See the resources in the hearing section of the website. NSU (National Screening Unit) www.nsu.govt.nz
The NSU website provides information about the Universal Newborn Hearing Screening Programme, including a
checklist Can your baby hear? Back to TopYour notesEndorsement
This fact sheet was endorsed by PSNZ - 19/08/2011
CopyrightFact sheets are subject to copyright. In the interests of information sharing they may be copied but acknowledgement must be given to PSNZ and Starship Foundation. © The Paediatric Society of New Zealand and Starship Foundation 2005 - 2012
|
Print this page
