Trustworthy Hearing Tests for Kids

 For Children Under 3 ½ Years of Age

We use behavioural audiometry to test the hearing of children under 3 ½ years. This means we play sounds and observe your child’s response. Children are not required to have any language skills for this type of test. There are two types of behavioural audiometry: 

• Behavioural Observation Audiometry (BOA): For children under 6 months old. We look for an age-appropriate behavioural response to sounds.
• Visual Reinforcement Orientation Audiometry (VROA): For children aged 6 months to 3 ½ years or those with developmental difficulties. This is suitable for children with good neck control. We condition your child to respond when they hear a sound. We test the range of frequencies required for normal speech development.

Due to the specialised equipment required for these tests, our paediatric audiologist performs behavioural audiometry only in Duncraig.

For Children Over 3½ Years of Age

We condition children to listen to sounds while wearing headphones, and this is performed in a soundproof booth. This assessment can be performed by any of our experienced Audiologists, at any of our hearing clinics in Perth or Geraldton.

How Much does a Child Hearing Test Cost?

Children’s hearing tests cost between $110 and $220, depending on what tests are required. 

Following your child’s assessment, the Audiologist will discuss the results with you. They will offer suggestions and recommendations on the appropriate next steps. A detailed report will be completed and sent to your Doctor, ENT, or other referring Specialist.

What are the Benefits of a Child Hearing Test?

Hearing tests for children are important – they will identify any issues with your child’s hearing, or confirm that your child can hear well. Good hearing is extremely important for speech and language development. 

Testing your child’s hearing can also:

• Identify any blockages in the middle ear (e.g. middle ear fluid)
• Ensure that your child can hear well in the classroom
• Facilitate better social relationships
• Help you identify other health issues

How Long Does a Child Hearing Test Take?

A child hearing test takes anywhere between 20 and 60 minutes, depending on the tests performed.

At times, children become too tired or distracted to complete a full test. We will always do our best to perform a thorough assessment, but the welfare of your child comes first. If we are unable to obtain full results, we may make recommendations based on the results we have obtained, or we may need to continue testing at a later date.

Why Choose Us?

Our Audiologists have over 40 years of experience working with children. We take a caring and holistic approach, and tailor each assessment to the needs of each child. We work closely with local Ear, Nose & Throat Specialists, and will refer for further medical opinion when required. 

We provide and encourage follow-up appointments for continued care, to ensure that your child can hear well and thrive.