What is a hearing screen?

A hearing screen is a quick check to make sure your child can hear speech and everyday sounds clearly. It is not a full hearing test. It helps identify children who may need a closer look at their hearing.

What happens during the screening in school

• Your child will sit in a quiet room with a public health assistant.
• They will wear soft headphones.
• They will listen to a series of beeps at different volumes.
• They will raise their hand when they hear a sound.
• The screening takes around three to five minutes, and is safe and painless.

If your child passes the screening

• Your child responded well to the sounds.
• No further action is needed.
• If you have concerns at any time, you can speak to your GP.

If your child does not pass the screening

• This does not mean your child has permanent hearing difficulties.
• Many children do not pass the first screen because of temporary issues, for example glue ear or congestion.
• Your child will have the screening repeated in twelve to fourteen weeks.
• If they don't pass the repeat test, they will be referred to audiology for further checks.

Signs that your child may not be hearing well

• Not responding when called.
• Asking for things to be repeated.
• Watching faces and lips closely.
• Finding it hard to follow instructions.
• Misunderstanding or ignoring instructions.
• Needing help from friends to understand what has been said.
• Becoming easily frustrated or tired.
• Appearing inattentive or daydreamy.
• Watching others before joining in.
• Talking too loudly or too softly.
• Playing alone or not joining group activities.

Mild hearing loss and glue ear

Glue ear is very common and can cause temporary hearing loss that comes and goes.

A child with mild hearing loss may miss up to fifty per cent of what is said in the classroom. Glue ear is one of the most common causes of hearing problems in young children. Mild hearing loss can affect learning and language if it continues over time.

Glue ear, which is fluid behind the eardrum can be caused by ear infection, general illness or another unknown reason.

How you can help at home

• Get your child’s attention before speaking.
• Reduce background noise.
• Face your child when talking.
• Speak clearly and naturally.

Support in school

• Sit your child near the teacher.
• Use visual aids.
• Reduce noise where possible.
• Check understanding regularly.
• Provide regular breaks.

Children with mild or temporary hearing loss can thrive with the right support. Hearing issues can fluctuate, especially with glue ear.

If your child is already seeing an ear, nose and throat or audiology specialist

• They do not need a school hearing screen.
• Please opt out using the link in your invite letter.
• A school screen will not speed up an existing referral, and may delay it if it creates a duplicate referral.

Who can help

• Kent School Health: 0300 123 5205.
• Your school’s special educational needs coordinator or inclusion lead.
• Your GP.