Identifying Auditory Processing Issues in Children: Signs & Symptoms

Most people periodically experience a harsh noise that causes us to flinch or cover our ears. Children with auditory sense problems hear everyday noises differently and frequently react as if they heard a harsh noise or have a less than normal reaction to sound. Recognize the symptoms of an auditory sense problem so you can help your child cope. Read on to learn how to recognize children's auditory sense problems.

Instructions

• 1

  Watch your child's reaction to loud noises. If he covers his ears and attempts to avoid the noise, he may be extra responsive to auditory stimuli. A failure to react at all to such noise may indicate underresponsiveness.

• 2

  Observe your child's behavior when exposed to loud noises. Your child may appear disoriented and confused. She may be less cooperative and resistant to participate in activities.

• 3

  Ask your child's teachers about his behavior at school. Inquire about his reaction to whistles, fire alarms or horns. Children with auditory underresponsiveness may react negatively to such sounds. Some children freeze in response to alarms.

• 4

  Think about your child's reaction to typical household sounds, such as the vacuum cleaner or toilet flush. She may try to avoid such sounds whenever possible.

• 5

  Notice if your child appears to notice little sounds that most people tune out. Children with auditory overresponsiveness may notice such sounds to the extent that it disrupts their day-to-day activities.