As the school year winds down and backpacks are traded for pool floats, it’s the perfect time for guardians to reflect: How did your child do this year socially, academically, and developmentally?

If you noticed struggles with focus, falling behind in class, or your child often asking “What?”, it might not just be end-of-year fatigue. These could be subtle signs of hearing loss.

The Hidden Impact of Hearing Loss in Children

Hearing plays a critical role in a child’s language development, social skills, and classroom performance. When hearing challenges go undetected, it can lead to misdiagnosis of learning difficulties, behavioral issues, or attention problems.

Common signs of hearing loss in children include:

• Difficulty understanding speech, especially in noisy environments
• Speaking loudly or turning up devices to high volumes
• Trouble following directions or inattentiveness
• Frequent complaints of ear discomfort or asking others to repeat themselves

Why Summer Is a Great Time to Check In on Hearing Health

With school out, summer offers a unique window of opportunity to address health check-ups - including hearing. Without the pressure of homework or after school activities, you can take the time to get your child’s hearing evaluated and any questions answered.

If your child already wears hearing aids or uses assistive technology, this is also a great time to:

• Check if their devices need updates, repairs, adjustments, or a deep cleaning.
• Reinforce positive habits for device use and care.
• Explore new tools or apps that can support their listening and learning.

Set Your Child Up for Success Next School Year

Early detection and intervention are key. By prioritizing hearing health now, you’re not only improving your child’s quality of life, but you’re also setting them up for a more confident, connected, and successful school year ahead.

Here’s how to get started this summer:

1. Schedule a hearing screening with a pediatric audiologist or ENT.
2. Talk to your child about how they felt in school this year: did they have trouble hearing friends, teachers, or videos?
3. Monitor any changes in speech, behavior, or learning at home.
4. Learn about hearing protection especially for loud summer activities like concerts, sporting events,  lawn mowers, leaf blowers, and fireworks.

Healthy Hearing Builds Bright Futures

Summer is a season of fun and freedom, and also the ideal time to set your child up for a successful year ahead. Take a moment now to ensure your child’s hearing health is on track so they can return to school ready to thrive.

For more tips and resources on child hearing health and to find a hearing care professional near you, visit https://www.betterhearing.org/for-kids/