Ears

Ear infections are very common in young children. They can cause pain, and often fever. If you suspect your child has an ear infection, take them to your family doctor. If you have concerns about your child's hearing at any time, take your child for an assessment. If your child does have a hearing problem, finding it as early as possible is good for their learning and development. Read more about checking your child's hearing in the pages on hearing and vision checks. 
 

A child's ear

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Ear Infections

Ear pain and concerns about hearing are one of the most common reasons parents take their young children to the doctor.

Glue Ear

If your child has glue ear, it means there is fluid in the space behind the ear drum. The main symptom of glue ear is hearing difficulty. Hearing loss for long periods during the early years may affect speech and language development.

Grommets

Your child's doctor may recommend grommets if your child has glue ear that won't clear up, or has frequent ear infections.

Hearing & Vision Checks For Babies

Your baby's eyes should be checked soon after birth. If you have concerns about your baby's vision or hearing at any time, take your baby for an assessment.

Hearing & Vision Checks For Preschool Children

Your child's hearing and vision will be discussed with you at various Well Child checks before your child turns 4 years of age. If your child does have a hearing or vision problem, finding it early is good for their learning and development.

Hearing & Vision Checks For School-Age Children

Screening for some vision problems for your child should happen around 11 or 12 years of age. Your child will not have their hearing checked at school so if you are concerned about your child's hearing, it's important that you visit your family doctor.

Hearing Problems In Children

If your child has speech or language difficulties or has trouble following instructions, they may have a hearing problem. Other signs include if they are easily distracted or have difficulty paying attention in class.

Ear Infections

Ear Infections In Detail