Children & Hearing

Hearing & Speech Development

Hearing is the foundation of language, learning and social development. From birth to age 5, hearing determines a child's ability to understand and express the world around them.

By observing simple behaviours such as responding to their name or understanding simple words, parents can identify early difficulties. Early diagnosis and intervention ensures your child will have the right support to develop fully.

Book an appointment
Hearing & Speech Development

RECOGNISING DIFFICULTIES

Early signs you should know

Early observation can prevent serious speech development delays. Some of the most common signs of hearing difficulties are:

No response when the child cannot see who is speaking

Excessive TV or radio volume

Delayed learning of first words

Difficulty following instructions or participating in conversations

Learn how to recognise the early signs
Signs by age

Hearing develops from birth. Below are the key milestones by age to watch for:

  • 0–6 months: Does not respond to loud sounds, is not calmed by parents' voices
  • 6–12 months: Does not turn head towards sounds, does not babble or vocalise
  • 1–2 years: Has not said first words, does not follow simple instructions
  • 3–5 years: Difficulty understanding brief instructions, speech unclear for their age
  • School age: Difficulty concentrating in class, frequently asks for questions to be repeated, falls behind in learning
Common causes of hearing loss

Hearing loss in children can arise from various causes:

  • Otitis media & middle ear fluid: The most common cause of temporary hearing loss in children
  • Genetic factors: Some forms of hearing loss are inherited
  • Birth complications: Premature birth, low birth weight or oxygen deprivation
  • Infections during pregnancy: Rubella, cytomegalovirus (CMV), toxoplasmosis
  • Ototoxic medications: Certain antibiotics and chemotherapy drugs can damage hearing
  • Prolonged exposure to loud sounds: Headphones, concerts, loud toys
When to see a specialist

We recommend an immediate specialist visit if you notice any of the following:

  • The child does not respond to their name or to loud sounds
  • They show speech development delays compared to peers
  • They constantly increase TV volume or ask you to speak louder
  • They struggle to follow classroom instruction or seem distracted
  • A paediatrician or teacher has identified a hearing or speech concern

Don't wait — early diagnosis and intervention makes a significant difference to a child's development.

The journey to clear hearing starts here

Hearing Solutions for Children

Customised solutions for every need. Connectivity options with smartphones and tablets are unique and help children stay connected to the world around them.

  • Phonak SKY Hearing Aids – Hearing aid types & Phonak SKY Lumity technologies
  • Implants & Roger support systems – Specialised solutions for children with severe hearing loss
See available options
Hearing Solutions for Children
Early Intervention — The sooner the better

Early intervention can change a child's life. Even mild hearing loss, if left undiagnosed, can lead to speech and social development delays. Immediate use of hearing aids maximises the hearing experience and speech development.

Galiotos Paediatric Centres are equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic systems and a child-friendly environment. A specialised team of expert scientists guides parents at every step.

Book an appointment

What now?

Recognize the first signs

Signs by age, common causes of hearing loss and when to see a specialist.

Choose from the latest hearing aids

Specialised children's hearing aids with EOPYY subsidy up to €900.

Home visit or store appointment

15-day free trial. Book an appointment today.

Related Articles

See all

Our Team

Stefanos Chelas

Stefanos Chelas

Stelios Chatzikyriakos

Stelios Chatzikyriakos

Σ Σ

Σοφία Σολδάτου

Find our centre

Syntagma

Opening hours:

Mon - Fri: 10:00 - 21:00
Sat: 10:00 - 15:00

Find us on Google Maps

Accessibility

Public parking at Syntagma Square

Metro stop: Syntagma (Lines 2 & 3)

PARENT SUPPORT

Together at every step

Frequently asked questions

When should my child have their first hearing test?

A hearing screening is recommended at birth as part of the newborn screening programme. If this was not done or you notice signs of hearing difficulties, contact us to book an appointment.

Does EOPYY cover children's hearing aids?

Yes, EOPYY covers children's hearing aids with a subsidy of up to €900. Our team guides you through the entire documentation and reimbursement process.

Which hearing aids are suitable for my child?

The choice of hearing aid depends on the degree of hearing loss, the child's age and their individual needs. Our specialists carry out a full assessment and guide you towards the best solution.

Partner organisations