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Hearing Loss in Babies, Ages 7 Months to 1 Year

Overview

You can watch your baby's behaviour to check for hearing loss. If you notice a change, your baby might have hearing loss.

Does your baby:

  • Listen when spoken to?
  • Turn or look up when you call their name?
  • Respond to requests like "come here" or "want more?"
  • Recognize words for common items like cup, shoe, or juice?

Your child should continue to respond to sounds and show that their listening skills are developing.

By 12 months, your child should:

  • Listen when someone talks to them.
  • Respond (turn or look up) to their own name and nearby sounds.
  • Starts to recognize words for everyday items (such as cup, shoe, or milk) and simple phrases (understand “no” and “bye-bye”).
  • Babbles a lot using different sounds (“bababa”, “ahahah”, “dididi”, or “upupup”), and imitate sounds and actions.
  • Communicate by crying, laughing, looking, grunting, and making sounds. They may also show or reach for people or things.
  • Maybe use their first words.

Talk to your family doctor or healthcare provider if you have concerns with how your child is responding to sound.

Credits

Adaptation Date: 8/15/2023

Adapted By: Alberta Health Services

Adaptation Reviewed By: Alberta Health Services

Adapted with permission from copyrighted materials from Healthwise, Incorporated (Healthwise). This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty and is not responsible or liable for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.