Children with hearing loss have problems hearing or understanding sound. The hearing loss can be in one ear (unilateral) or in both ears (bilateral). Because hearing is closely connected to speech, language, and learning, children with hearing loss may need extra support as they grow.
Parents, caregivers, teachers, audiologists, and other healthcare providers all play important roles. Working together helps ensure each child gets the equipment, strategies, and support that fit their needs. Every child is different, and what works well for one child may not be the best fit for another.
If the child is preschool aged, watch how they listen and talk. Are they starting to put words together? Are they trying new words? Do they seem to hear you from another room?
Once the child is in school, it’s a good idea for parents and caregivers to check in with the teacher often. They can ask how their child is doing and what extra support they may need to listen and learn.
Effects of hearing loss on children
Hearing loss can affect children in the following ways:
Hearing and understanding
- problems hearing or understanding what’s being said in a noisy room or from far away
- missing small words (such as “an” or “the”)
- not hearing sounds clearly enough to tell small differences in words (such as “talked,” “talk,” and “top,” or word endings including “-s,” “-ing,” and “-ed”)
- being very sensitive to loud sounds
- not knowing where sounds are coming from (such as speech, warning sounds, environmental noises)
- missing important information when someone isn’t speaking directly to them
Language and learning
- problems with developing speech and language, including grammar and vocabulary (words they know and use)
- challenges with spelling, reading, and recognizing the different sounds in words
- trouble following instructions and conversations
- struggling to keep up with classroom work
Social connections, emotions, and behaviour
- trouble paying attention
- acting out because they’re frustrated
- trouble getting along with other children
- feeling uncomfortable in social settings
- becoming tired more easily because it takes a lot of energy to listen and understand
Create a good listening environment
You can support a child with hearing loss by making small changes to help them understand speech better.
Position yourself
- Move close and face the child when you speak to them.
- Move away from other sounds like the TV, radio, or dishwasher.
- If the child hears better with one ear, position yourself so that ear is closest to you.
Reduce background noise
- Use area carpets, curtains, and acoustic ceiling tiles.
- Put bulletin boards and artwork on the walls.
- Close doors and windows.
- Cover table or chair feet with soft material like felt pads, tennis balls, or socks.
- Make sure heating and air conditioning systems are working properly.
- Turn off noises (like the TV or radio) before talking.
Adjust how you communicate
There are many ways you can communicate for better understanding.
Get the child’s attention first
Before you talk or give instructions, make sure the child is looking or listening. You can:
- Say their name.
- Gently touch their shoulder.
- Flick the lights.
- Use a simple hand signal you both know.
Let the child see who is talking
Face the child when you speak. Repeat or explain what someone else says so they can follow along.
Use simple words
If the child does not understand what you said, say it again using words they understand.
Ask questions
Ask simple questions to check if the child understands what you are talking about.
Give short instructions
Break big tasks into small steps. Tell the child only the information they need right now.
Use visual cues
What a child sees is important for them to understand communication:
- Face the child, speak clearly and slowly, and stand still when talking.
- Keep objects away from your face when talking (like gum, pen, hands, or books).
- Encourage the child to watch the face of the person speaking.
- Keep indoor lighting bright. Have light shine on the speaker’s face and not behind them, which makes it hard to see.
Where to get help
To learn how speech-language pathologists and audiologists can help with speech, language, and hearing concerns, contact your child’s healthcare provider or visit
Pediatric Rehabilitation.
