Children's Audiology›Early Years
Early Years Hearing Assessment
Specialist hearing assessment for babies, toddlers and preschool children
Hearing is fundamental to speech and language development. If you have concerns about your baby or young child's hearing — or if concerns have been raised by a health visitor, GP or nursery — specialist assessment can provide clarity and peace of mind.
How we assess young children's hearing
Young children don't always need to press a button or follow verbal instructions for their hearing to be assessed. We use a range of specialist, play-based and behavioural techniques appropriate to your child's age and developmental stage.
Visual Reinforcement Audiometry (VRA)
Used for babies and toddlers from around 6 months. Your child learns to turn towards a sound, rewarded by an animated toy. No button pressing required.
Play Audiometry
Used for toddlers and preschool children. Your child responds to sounds through a simple play activity — placing a brick in a box or a peg on a board.
Otoacoustic Emissions (OAEs)
A quick, objective test that checks the function of the inner ear (cochlea). Suitable for all ages, including newborns. Can be taken even with your child asleep.
Tympanometry
Checks the health and movement of the eardrum and middle ear. Helps identify glue ear and other middle ear conditions.
Signs that may suggest a hearing concern in young children
Book an Early Years Assessment
If you have concerns about your baby or young child's hearing, we're here to help. Early assessment means early support.
Book / EnquireRelated pages
School-age hearing assessment
What changes as children get older — including speech-in-noise and classroom listening tests.
Glue ear & hearing
How glue ear affects young children's hearing and what can be done about it.
Why early screening matters
The evidence behind early identification and why timing makes such a difference.
How children's hearing develops
A guide to the stages of auditory development from birth through childhood.