Hearing loss is described as the reduced ability or inability to hear sounds. This may occur when the structures of the ear are not working as they should. Hearing loss can occur at the time of birth (congenital hearing loss) but can also be acquired as the child grows and develops (acquired hearing loss).
Some of the common causes of hearing loss are the following:
- Genetic factors
- Infections during pregnancy
- Complications at birth
- Head trauma
- Ear infections
- Ototoxic drugs
- Noise exposure
Hearing loss may manifest in different types and severity. Conductive hearing loss is caused by concerns with the structures or function of the outer and/or middle ear, which hinders the sound to effectively reach the inner ear to the brain. Sensorineural hearing loss is caused by problems in the inner ear or the nerves from the inner ear to the brain. Mixed hearing loss is a combination of both types.
Hearing loss affects the child’s overall development. Difficulties hearing certain sounds would lead to delays in language and speech skills. These delays in communication skills may hinder the child’s interaction with family and peers. Problems in school may also arise because children with hearing loss typically need extra help and special adjustments to learn.
At Happy Plays: A Place for Therapeutic Plays Co., our 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘆™ HEAR program is focused on guiding and helping children with hearing loss develop speech and language skills. We teach the child and the parents how to train and improve listening skills for those with an amplification device (hearing aid, cochlear implant) and how to optimize the learning environment for those still waiting for an amplification device.
Send us a message at the “Contact Us” tab or email us at happyplayscoph@gmail.com for inquries.
