The Aston Hearing Child Hearing Assessment
Children’s Hearing
If you are concerned about your child’s hearing (click here) for indicators, or if there is a history of hearing problems in the family, it may be a good idea to arrange a simple hearing screening test which can be followed by a more in-depth hearing assessment if necessary.
You can arrange this by visiting your GP surgery and they will consider a referral to the Audiology Department at the hospital or you can organise a private appointment with us. Childhood hearing problems are dealt with very efficiently by the health service but there are occasions when you may require a more detailed explanation or advice at a time that is convenient to you in a non-hospital environment.
The report of your child’s hearing assessment can be forwarded to GP, ENT and other professionals, including their school, at your request. As part of the assessment we offer a follow up appointment to assess progress, which is included in the initial cost.
Pre-School Children (10 months – 4 years old)
Children’s Hearing
We are able to assess children from the age of approximately 10 months old and our main criterion is that the child is able to sit up unaided. We have a range of objective and subjective tests to suit all ages and abilities. Our primary aim is to conduct the assessments in a relaxed and fun environment, using toys, picture books, sounds and hand-held audiological equipment, with parents present in the room. We conduct all assessments in pairs so that we can have an assessor and observer. We find this style of assessment to be most successful as the child’s interest level is maintained and the relaxed, comfortable atmosphere encourages better engagement. Depending upon the results, we may require a follow-up session which is included in the initial fee. We will provide a comprehensive report with our findings and recommendations, which can be forwarded to relevant professionals on request.
School Age Children (4 years old +)
Children’s Hearing
School age children can be assessed in the same way as pre-school children, but if they are able, we test their hearing as we do adults, in the sound booth using headphones. We present a series of tones at different frequencies and different intensities (loudness levels). If we carry out a full audiometric assessment we are able to help you have a greater understanding of your child’s hearing. If this is not possible, the pre-school assessment is adapted to suit the older child. We can determine whether the child has a measurable hearing loss, where in the hearing range the problem is occurring and at what level.
With older children we are often required to report to their school the findings of our assessment. We can also arrange a visit to the school, to meet the teacher and advise on communication techniques specifically tailored to suit the child’s individual needs.
