The CDC reports, 90% of infants born with hearing loss have two hearing parents. Babies who are deaf or hard of hearing can make the same sounds as babies without hearing loss. Babies are never too young to get a hearing test, early testing will allow the chance for families to get early intervention services that will help babies grow and develop to their highest level.
Remember the Rule of 1, 3, 6
Age Steps For Testing Infant Hearing
- 1 Month – All infants should have their hearing screened
- 3 Months – Infants who fail to pass newborn hearing screenings should have an audiologic diagnosis completed
- 6 months – Infants with confirmed hearing loss should be entered into an early intervention program
Healthy Hearing Starts Now
If your infant did not pass the hearing screen, a follow-up test before three months of age is critical. If a hearing loss is present, there are many treatment options, when started before six months of age, that can help make sure your infant has a lifetime of healthy hearing.
Your baby’s hearing is important. Call the Healthy Hearing program at the Arkansas Department of Health, 501-280-4740 for more information
Child Find Resources
Downloads and Information
- Early Intervention is Key
- Organizations that Support Children with a Hearing Condition
- Providers of Follow-up Infant Hearing Screening
- Wristband QR Code
- Wristband QR Code II
- Decision Guide
- Questions to Ask Your Doctor
- Early Intervention Questions
- Arkansas First Connections
- Arkansas School for the Deaf Statewide Services
- Arkansas Hands and Voices
- Resource Guide for Parents of Deaf/Hard-of-Hearing Children
- Arkansas Parent Stories (Video)
- Expectant Mother Fact Sheet in English & Spanish
