Children with hearing problems can be born to parents with normal hearing. Scientists have discovered that a gene plays a significant role in the development of the cells essential to hearing. The gene sends a signal to ear cells to mature into hair cells in the inner ear. Hair cells are responsible for both hearing and balance. If these cells do not develop, or if they are destroyed, they do not regenerate.

In addition, many diseases can be passed down from the mother to the fetus. For example, if the mother has German measles during pregnancy, this disease can cause birth defects in the child’s hearing. Likewise premature birth, mumps, scarlet fever, all the diseases that a mother could have during the pregnancy can affect the hearing of the child.

As a result it is important for the mother to have the infant tested as early as possible to detect hearing loss. After all, children learn speech patterns through hearing and imitation. Any problems need to be addressed as early as possible. If undetected, hearing loss leads to major social and academic complications.

Infants can be fitted with hearing devices as young as four weeks old. Doctors should test babies at birth to detect any hearing problems. The earlier hearing loss is diagnosed, the better it will be for the child. Presently the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all newborns be checked for hearing ability. Once the child has been diagnosed with a hearing problem, devices can be added to help with speech development.

In addition to hearing aids FM systems are the most common assistive listening devices used with children. By using an FM listening system , a child will be able to hear the teacher’s voice regardless of the distance between the child and the teacher.

Many school districts employ certified audiologists who specialize in educational settings. They work with the teacher to determine the best plan for the child’s education.

It is important to work with both an audiologist and an early intervention team to evaluate the best program for the child. If a child is deaf, then different schools and plans exist. Most members of the deaf culture use American Sign Language, and this is a separate educational program.

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act ensures that children who have hearing loss receive free programs from birth to age 3, and throughout the school years as well. Early Intervention services involve multidisciplinary services. The goal is to enhance the family’s understanding of the child’s needs and build a support system to monitor the child’s progress.

In a separate page on this site the subject of cochlear implants will be covered. This is another possibility for the deaf child.

The lack of early detection of hearing problems in children is one of the major health problems today. Educating the mother before the child is born is essential. A woman must learn how to care for herself before pregnancy so that the chances of having a healthy baby will be greater. The mother is the key, and her health habits will directly influence what happens to the baby. She must take on the responsibility of learning as much as she can to help the odds of producing a healthy child.

For more information on children and hearing loss parents can contact the American Speech, Language , and Hearing Association for additional advice. Their phone number is 1-800-638-8255.