Signs of Hearing Problems or Language Delay

AGE	NORMAL REACTION	SIGN OF POSSIBLE PROBLEM
Newborn	Shows a startle response to loud noises such as a hand clap or a door slamming, and should blink or open her eyes wide at the sound.	Doesn’t physically react to loud, sudden sounds or noises.
4 to 5 weeks	Begins to notice sudden prolonged sounds, such as the noise of a vacuum cleaner. Pauses to listen when they start.	Doesn’t appear to notice the start of sudden, prolonged sounds.
By 3 months	Turns in the direction of your voice or other noises.	Doesn’t locate sounds by turning her head.
At 4 months	Becomes quiet or smiles at the sound of your voice even when she cannot see you. Turns eyes and head toward you if you approach from behind and speak at her side.	Shows no change in behavior when you speak from another room or behind or beside her.
At 7 months	Turns immediately to your voice from across the room or to your whispering on either side if she isn’t occupied with a toy.	Seems oblivious to your whispering.
By 8 months	Uses sounds to get your attention.	Doesn’t smile, establish eye contact, or respond when her name is called.
By 9 months	Listens attentively and turns toward familiar, everyday sounds, such as the telephone ringing. Searches for very quiet sounds made out of sight.	No noise making. Doesn’t react to everyday sounds.
Between 8 and 12 months	Responds to her own name. Looks at people who are talking to her, shows an interest, and tries to communicate with them.	Turns away from others, and doesn’t respond. Fails to follow simple commands or connect words and objects by her first year.