Birth to age 3 is the most important time to develop listening and talking skills. Explore our tips to nurture baby's hearing and development every step of the way.
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Baby's First Words: Fact or Fiction? Take the Quiz
7 Important Things to Know About Baby’s Hearing
4 Easy Ways to Read Aloud for 15 Minutes a Day
Key Next Steps
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By 1 month, all newborns should receive a hearing screening, ideally before discharge from the hospital.
By 3 months, if baby does not pass the initial screening or a follow-up rescreening, a full diagnostic evaluation by a pediatric audiologist should be completed.
By 6 months, if permanent hearing loss is confirmed, babies should be enrolled in early intervention services to support language and communication development.
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Read at Hearing First
Hearing helps baby discover their full potential. Shortly after birth, baby will receive a newborn hearing screening (NHS) before leaving the hospital or birthing center. If baby fails the screening, follow-up is urgent.
babies born in the U.S. have some level of hearing loss
It All Starts With Hearing
Here’s what to do if baby fails the hearing screening.
Baby’s Hearing Journey: a Guide to Early Development
Initial Screening
Diagnostic Evaluation
Early Intervention
“
It's my greatest joy to see how well she's adapted to school, how well she speaks, how much she enjoys life.
“
—Kolanda, mom of Corlena, who was born with hearing loss
The possibilities are endless for children who are deaf or hard of hearing to listen, talk, read and thrive. Read more about Corlena and other families living with hearing loss in the LSL Life docuseries at HearingFirst.org.
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