A child’s ability to hear is closely connected to how they learn to speak, socialize, and thrive in school. Yet many hearing concerns go undetected simply because parents aren’t sure when to schedule a test or what to expect when they do. If your child is not meeting speech or developmental milestones, or if you’ve simply never had their hearing formally assessed, booking a pediatric hearing test in Toronto is an important first step. This guide covers the key milestones to watch for, what happens at an appointment, and when to act.
Why Pediatric Hearing Tests Matter
Hearing is foundational to nearly everything a child learns in their first years of life language development, social communication, and academic progress all depend on it. Hearing loss in children can be present from birth (congenital) or acquired later due to factors such as untreated ear infections, a perforated eardrum, or repeated exposure to loud noise.
Early identification is key. The sooner hearing loss is detected, the sooner intervention can begin whether through hearing aids, assistive devices, or ongoing monitoring. In Ontario, a physician’s referral is not required to book a pediatric audiology appointment.
Hearing Milestones by Age: What Parents Should Watch For
Every child develops at their own pace, but certain hearing and speech milestones serve as important checkpoints. Below are the signs your audiologist would consider at each stage:
Birth to 6 Months
- Startles in response to sudden loud noises
- Appears to recognize a parent’s voice
- Begins to make cooing or vowel sounds
6 to 12 Months
- Turns head toward familiar sounds or voices
- Begins to babble with varied sounds
- Says their first word by around 12 months
1 to 3 Years
- Follows simple verbal instructions without visual cues
- Vocabulary grows steadily 50+ words by age 2
- Speech is increasingly understood by family members
School Age
- Consistently responds to their name and conversation-level speech
- Does not frequently ask for repetition or turn up the TV volume
- Performs at expected levels in a classroom setting
If you’ve noticed any of these patterns, it may be time to act. You can learn more about when to schedule a professional hearing test and what the warning signs look like.
What Happens at a Pediatric Hearing Test in Toronto?
At pediatric hearing services, appointments are designed to be age-appropriate and low-stress for children. The type of test used will depend on your child’s age and cooperation level.
For newborns and infants, an OAE (Otoacoustic Emission) test is used. A soft spongy tip is gently placed in the ear canal, and the audiologist plays tones of various pitches to measure how the inner ear (cochlea) responds. The responses are recorded and analyzed; the child simply needs to be still and quiet.
For toddlers and older children, play-based hearing assessments are used, where the child responds to sounds through age-appropriate tasks. For school-age children, a standard audiometric evaluation (similar to an adult hearing test) can be used. Results are always reviewed with parents in plain language so you have a clear picture of your child’s hearing health.
When Should You Book Your Child’s First Hearing Test?
The Ontario Infant Hearing Program screens all newborns in the hospital. If your baby passes that screening, a routine follow-up hearing test is recommended before they enter school. If your child does not pass the newborn screening, a comprehensive hearing test including an ABR (Auditory Brainstem Response) test should be scheduled as soon as possible.
For children without identified hearing loss, the general recommendation is a hearing assessment every 3 to 5 years. If hearing loss is confirmed, annual testing is advised to track any changes over time. If you notice a sudden change in your child’s listening behaviour or speech, schedule an appointment immediately rather than waiting for the next routine check.
Read more about the importance of hearing screening for kids and what parents need to know before attending their first appointment.
Does OHIP Cover Pediatric Hearing Tests in Toronto?
Hearing assessments for children in Ontario are generally covered when referred through OHIP; however, since a physician’s referral is not required to book at Toronto Family Hearing, it is advisable to check your coverage with your insurance provider or family doctor. The clinic also offers a range of follow-up services, including hearing aids, assistive listening devices, and custom ear plugs in fun colours for kids.
To confirm coverage and book your child’s appointment, call one of the clinic’s Toronto locations.
Book a Pediatric Hearing Test in Toronto
Toronto Family Hearing‘s audiologists are experienced in working with children of all ages from newborns to teenagers. With multiple Toronto locations and no referral required, it’s easy to get your child’s hearing assessed. Book a pediatric hearing appointment and take the first step toward protecting your child’s hearing health.