How to Test Hearing in an Infant at Home
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, 33 infants are born daily with some degree of hearing loss. It is one of the most common congenital conditions in the United States. By doing home hearing screenings with infants, parents can determine if there are any hearing issues that should be investigated further by a pediatrician.
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Instructions
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Start by observing the infant in his normal environment. Take notes in a journal of the things that catches his attention. Take notice of whether he turns to look at items or objects that make noise or if he is paying attention to items that move.
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Place the infant in a comfortable position where she are able to left alone safely, such as her crib or bassinet. Stand behind the infant and clap your hands several times loudly. Take note if the infant responds to the noise and write down results in the journal.
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Stand in front of the infant and say the infant's name several times. Pay attention to if the infant turns his head in your direction or attempts to make eye contact. Take notes on the infant's response in the journal.
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Encourage the infant to speak or make babbling noises. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, a normal infant should be able to start making noises such as squeals and start laughing in between 3 to 6 months. Write down the noises the infant is making in the journal or if she is not creating any noises.
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Have someone go into another room while you stay with the infant. Have the other person make noises in the other room such as stomping feet, talking or singing a song. The infant should show signs of interest or desire to investigate the noises from the other room. Take notes of his response in the journal.
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If the infant isn't responding in a way a parent feels comfortable about any hearing tests they should contact a pediatrician to discuss their concerns and do a hearing test. Bring the journal documenting home tests to help with the diagnosis.
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Tips & Warnings
If you suspect any hearing loss in your infant, see a pediatrician for a diagnosis.
