Hearing tests can be a new or difficult experience for your child, but with some preparation, you can help make it a positive one.
Audiologists use various tests depending on your child’s age, cognitive development, and the type of hearing loss they are evaluating. While the specifics of each test are explained in the links provided, here are some practical tips to help your child cooperate during the appointment:
- Choose the right time: Schedule the appointment for a time when your child is typically calm, happy, and more likely to cooperate. Children should be well fed, well rested and their nappy should be changed before the appointment where appropriate. Newborns should not be fed or rested if they are having a non-sedated ABR.
- Communicate with the audiologist: Share any concerns or specific needs with the audiologist before the appointment, such as any sensory sensitivities or anxiety about wearing headphones.
Offer reassurance: Comfort your child and let them know the test is safe. Bringing along a favourite toy or blanket can provide reassurance and help your child feel more secure.- Explain the process: Use simple, child-friendly language, pictures or video (see link) to explain what will happen during the appointment. Tell them why the test is important and that asking questions is okay. You could even practice a mock hearing test at home to familiarise your child with the process.
- Prepare yourself: Stay calm and positive. Your child will take cues from your behaviour, so the more relaxed you are, the more comfortable they will feel.
- Dress comfortably: Dress your child in comfortable clothes that won’t distract or irritate them during the test.
- Consider alternatives: Some tests do not require a behavioural response, such as otoacoustic emissions, cortical auditory evoked potentials, and auditory brainstem response testing (ABR). ABR testing might require sedation or general anaesthetic, but it is usually a last resort.
- Reward cooperation: If appropriate, plan a small reward or treat for after the test to give your child something to look forward to.
Remember to make sure you understand the audiogram before leaving the audiologist. It is reasonable to seek a second opinion if you’re not satisfied with the test process or results. Your peace of mind is important.
Download the Real Life Tips infographic.
More information:
- How audiologists test hearing
- Hearing tests educational video | UsherKids
- Hearing loss assessment in children | PubMed article: John Sommerfeldt; Caroline M. Kolb.
