As a result of improved technology, permanent hearing loss can be identified soon after birth. Children who have normal hearing begin using single words at about one year of age. In reality, a great deal of language is learned before children utter their first word. Hearing loss can disrupt language development because learning spoken language depends on the ability to hear speech.
Some studies suggest that the ability to learn language peaks between two to four years of age.
For this reason the earlier that finding and addressing any hearing loss begins, the greater chances of developing listening abilities and using spoken language. The use of hearing aids is an integral part of this process. Audiologists usually recommend hearing aids as soon as possible after a loss is identified. As more complete information about a child's hearing loss is obtained, a hearing aid evaluation can be completed to recommend hearing aids for purchase. Before hearing aids can be purchased for a child, an audiologist must determine the degree of hearing loss.