This area of speech-language development refers to the inability of a child to accurately detect and understand incoming auditory information- from simple sounds/noises to the speech of others (despite the fact that the child has normal hearing – normal audiograms/hearing check-ups).
Red Flags
- Exhibits a short attention span and becomes easily fatigued; forgets what is said within a few minutes.
- Unable to block out irrelevant stimuli (background noises like air conditioners or traffic).
- Inability to detect where sound is coming from.
- May listen attentively, but has difficulty following long or complicated directions.
- A significant history of chronic middle ear infections or fluctuating hearing loss.
- Slow to answer questions.
- Difficulty in reading, writing, or spelling.
- Appears pre-occupied; difficult to get their attention; daydreams.
- Presence of hyperactivity, or Attention Deficit Disorder.
- Limited abstract abilities and difficulty pretending in play situations.
- Does not remember simple routine things from day to day.
- Overreacts to loud noises or sounds.
- May show need to “cock head” or extend neck to focus attention.
- Always looks to see what others are doing before responding to verbal direction.
- Verbalizes whatever comes to mind; responses may not be appropriate to questions, topics, or situations.