7 Signs of Auditory Processing Disorder in Kids

Does my child have Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)? It may be a question you haven’t even thought to ask yourself. 

The reality is many parents do not realize their children struggle with auditory processing deficits because they are often misinterpreted. Auditory Processing Disorder can be associated with autism spectrum disorder, dyslexia or other conditions but it can also manifest in individuals on its own. Let’s look at some signs of Auditory Processing Disorder. 

What is an Auditory Processing Disorder?

Before we talk about the symptoms of Auditory Processing Disorder, let’s look at what it is. Auditory processing disorder can manifest in different ways depending on the individual. APD does not have to do with an individual’s ability to hear. 

There’s a complex and multi-step sequence that happens in our brains from when noise reaches our ears to when the brain interprets what is being heard. If any part of that process goes wrong, we might not understand what we are hearing. 

This can lead to confusion in conversations. But it can also mean that children miss out on significant aspects of their education. Children who deal with auditory processing disorders can have a hard time in class. They can struggle to keep up with the pace of the instructor and not absorb what is being taught. 

Seven Signs of Auditory Processing Disorder

Symptoms of auditory processing disorders can vary. Here is a non-exhaustive list of signs exhibited by an individual with auditory processing deficits:

1. Difficulty following conversations
2. Unable to follow spoken instructions
3. Distracted by background noises
4. Struggles to answer spoken questions
5. Confuses similar sounding words
6. Misses social cues such as sarcasm or nonverbal communication
7. Exhausted by and/or anxious about social gatherings

All of these can signify limitations in auditory understanding. If you are observing these behaviors in your child, then it may be time to seek out a professional diagnosis. 

You can schedule an educational evaluation for your child if you suspect they have an auditory processing disorder. With a diagnosis, you can begin to advocate for accommodation in their school. 

How to Help Your Student In School

Through a 504 plan or an IEP, you and your child’s team can create accommodations for their auditory processing disorder. This way their learning environment does not hinder their education. 

For example, they might need to change where they are seated in class. Or the teacher can check in with them more often to ensure they understand the material. Another common accommodation for students who struggle with auditory processing is having notes provided for them. The accommodation may vary from student to student but there are ways to ensure your child is able to get the most out of their education. 

Changes You Can Make at Home

You can also make changes in the home for your child. These small adjustments can mean that your child feels less overwhelmed at home. They can encourage your child to work with their auditory processing disorder, not against it. 

Does your child have a quiet workplace to do their homework? If not, maybe find or create one. With a less noisy environment, focusing on homework will be less of a battle. 

When you’re talking to your child, turn off the TV or radio. Try to limit any background noise. They will find it easier to focus on your words. If giving them spoken instructions, break it down step by step. This will make following the instructions easier and less overwhelming. 

If you believe your child is struggling with these challenges, feel free to reach out to discuss what else you can do to help your child. 

If you live in or around the Santa Clarita Valley, please reach out. I am here to help!