#asktheexpert how do we make sure that baby ear are functioning well..that she is able to hear properly.. 4month old baby

Question

Accepted Answer

most newborns startle or "jump" to sudden loud noises. by 3 months, a baby recognizes and calms to a parent's voice. by 6 months, babies turn their eyes or head toward a new sound and repeat sounds.
if there is any confusion it is advisable to visit the doctor for the same e

Accepted Answer

Ensuring that your 4-month-old baby's ears are functioning well and that she can hear properly involves a few simple observations and checks:

1. **Response to Sounds**: Observe how your baby responds to sounds around her. By 4 months, babies should startle or turn their heads in response to familiar noises or voices.

2. **Eye Contact and Smiling**: Notice if your baby makes eye contact or smiles in response to your voice or other sounds. This indicates that she is recognizing and responding to auditory stimuli.

3. **Startle Reflex**: Check if your baby reacts to sudden noises with a startle reflex. This is a normal response that shows her auditory system is working.

4. **Environmental Sounds**: Pay attention to how your baby responds to environmental sounds, such as toys that make noise or household sounds. She should show interest or startle at these sounds.

5. **Developmental Milestones**: Monitor your baby's overall development. Hearing is closely linked to speech and language development, so milestones like babbling and turning towards sounds are positive signs.

If you have concerns about your baby's hearing or notice any signs of hearing difficulty (such as lack of response to sound), it's essential to discuss them with your pediatrician. They can perform a more formal hearing evaluation if needed or provide reassurance based on their assessment during routine check-ups. Early detection and intervention, if necessary, can significantly support your baby's overall development.