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Pediatric Audiology Services in the Tampa Bay Area

Pediatric Audiology Services in the Tampa Bay Area

Complete Hearing Care for Growing Children

Complete Hearing Care for Growing Children

Hearing is closely linked to a child’s speech, language, learning, and social development. Even mild hearing loss can affect how children communicate and connect with the world around them. At Tampa Children’s ENT, our pediatric audiologists provide specialized care for children from birth through young adulthood.

With advanced diagnostic testing, personalized treatment plans, and compassionate support for families, we make sure no child is left behind when it comes to hearing. Our team is here to help children hear better, speak with confidence, and thrive in school and daily life.

Advanced Diagnostic Audiology Services

Accurate testing is an essential step in helping children hear, speak, and learn with confidence. We provide safe and reliable evaluations designed for every age group.

  • Middle Ear Evaluation: Middle ear testing checks the movement of the eardrum and reflexes in the middle ear. This allows us to identify common issues such as fluid buildup, chronic ear infections, or structural problems that interfere with hearing.
  • Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE) Testing: OAE testing measures how the inner ear (cochlea) responds to sound. The test is painless, quick, and especially useful for babies and young children who cannot complete behavioral tests.
  • Behavioral Hearing Evaluations: For older infants, toddlers, and school-age children, we use play-based or age-appropriate hearing tests. These evaluations are critical if a child fails a school screening, struggles to follow instructions, or shows speech delays.
  • Newborn Hearing Screening Follow-Up: If your newborn did not pass their initial hearing screening, or has not had their hearing screening, we provide prompt follow-up testing. Early diagnosis allows for immediate treatment, which is vital for healthy speech and language development.
  • Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) Testing: ABR testing measures how the hearing nerve and brain respond to sounds. It is often done while a baby naps naturally and provides accurate information about hearing levels without requiring the child's active participation.
  • Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Evaluations: Some children hear normally but have difficulty processing sounds. For children aged seven and older, APD testing helps us identify listening, comprehension, and attention issues that may affect school performance. APD Paperwork

Hearing Treatments and Devices

Every child’s hearing needs are different. We offer a variety of solutions to improve hearing, protect ear health, and support learning and development.

  • Hearing Aids: We offer digital hearing aids that are small, comfortable, and customized to each child's hearing needs. Our team programs and adjusts the devices while providing training and ongoing support for both children and parents.
  • Osseointegrated Devices: Also known as bone-anchored hearing devices, these are designed for children who cannot benefit from traditional hearing aids. Options include soft-band devices for younger children and surgically placed devices for older patients.
  • Cochlear Implants: For children with severe to profound hearing loss, cochlear implants can provide access to sound and spoken language. We evaluate candidacy, assist with surgery coordination, and provide long-term programming and follow-up care.
  • FM and Assistive Listening Systems: In noisy environments like classrooms, assistive listening devices such as FM systems can make a big difference. These tools help children hear teachers more clearly and stay engaged in learning.
  • Custom Hearing Protection and Swim Plugs: We provide custom-fitted plugs to protect against water exposure, reduce risks of ear infections, and safeguard hearing in loud environments such as concerts, music lessons, or sports events.

Why Early Hearing Care Matters?

Early screenings and timely interventions are essential for children. Detecting hearing problems early can prevent speech delays, improve school performance, and reduce frustration or behavioural challenges.

Parents should schedule an audiology evaluation if they notice signs such as:

  • A baby who does not respond to loud sounds.
  • A toddler who does not develop speech on time.
  • A child who frequently asks for repetition or turns up the TV.
  • Difficulty focusing in school or following instructions.
  • Concerns raised during routine screenings at school or by a pediatrician.

By acting early, you give your child the best chance to develop strong communication skills and enjoy a confident, connected future.

Schedule an Appointment for Pediatric Audiology Care

If you suspect your child has a hearing issue or has failed a screening, don’t wait to take the next step. At Tampa Children’s ENT, we make scheduling simple with online appointments and easy access to new patient forms.

Our pediatric audiology team is dedicated to helping your child hear clearly, communicate with confidence, and live a healthier, happier life. Contact us today to request an appointment and begin the journey to better hearing health.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Yes. Newborn screenings and follow-up tests like ABR and OAE can detect hearing loss in the first weeks of life. Early detection makes a significant difference in speech and language development.

Signs include delayed speech, poor response to sounds, turning up the TV volume, difficulty in school, or frequent requests to repeat instructions.

Yes. Modern hearing aids are safe, durable, and highly effective. They can be programmed and adjusted as your child grows and their needs change.

No. Many children benefit from hearing aids or other assistive devices. Cochlear implants are recommended only when other options are not effective.

Absolutely. Hearing difficulties can make it hard to follow lessons, respond in class, or interact with peers. Early treatment helps children stay on track academically and socially.

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