Hearing health begins with screening for hearing loss at birth. Without screening, the average age of identification of hearing loss has historically been
between 2 ½ to 3 years of age, making it difficult for many children to catch up with communication and social skills. Early diagnosis and intervention can profoundly and positively impact a child's success, both in the classroom
and in life.
The Hearing Foundation of Canada (THFC) has committed to an active public education program on the need for universal newborn hearing screening programs in all Canadian provinces. THFC worked with two universities in 2002 to develop and launch a major Newborn Hearing Screening education program across the country. Brochures, videos, CDs, and posters were distributed to health care professionals, new parents, public servants, and to encourage adoption of province-wide Early Hearing Detection and Intervention programs. The response to these materials was overwhelmingly positive. By the end of 2003, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, and the Yukon had implemented infant hearing screening programs with the help of the bilingual educational materials developed by THFC.
Newborn hearing screening is a gentle, non-invasive test that can identify a potential hearing problem at birth or shortly after. Babies identified with a hearing loss will then experience early intervention, so that the crucial communication development in their early years is not compromised. THFC supports the screening for all children as early as possible.