Parents can check their baby’s hearing. Begin by being certain that the baby is happy and in a quiet room . The following signs indicate healthy hearing.

Age birth to three months, does the baby:

• Startle or jump when there is a sudden loud sound?
• Stir or wake up and cry when someone talks or makes noise?
• Recognize and be quieted and some times pacified by the sound of your voice?

Age three to six months, does the baby:

• Turn his/her eyes to look for an interesting sound?
• Respond to your voice?
• Turn his or her eyes toward you when calling the baby’s name?

Age six to twelve months, does the baby:

• Turn toward interesting sounds and toward the parent when his or her name is called from behind?
• Understand no and bye-bye and similar common words?
• Search or look around when hearing new sounds?

If the baby cannot do these things, check with the baby’s doctor.