Babies’ hearing
From the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, I'm Ira Dreyfuss with HHS HealthBeat. Children begin learning language when they're babies. Usually, they learn from what they hear, but that's not the only way. Babies who can't hear - or who can't hear well – can also learn language and communicate. Parents need to spot the hearing problems early, so they can help their children learn language in other ways. Dr. June Holstrum from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: "Babies just a day old can be tested right in the hospital to see if they have a hearing loss. These screening tests are quick and painless." (7 seconds) If the baby does not pass the screening test, a diagnostic evaluation should be completed before 3 months of age. If hearing loss is identified, early intervention should begin as soon as possible. Starting early will help the child develop age-appropriate communication skills. Learn more at hhs.gov. HHS HealthBeat is a production of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. I'm Ira Dreyfuss. Last revised: September, 17 2007 | 
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