Chart of Normal Hearing Development for Newborns

Birth to 3 Months of Age:

• Jumps or blinks to loud sounds.
• Wakes up to loud sounds.
• Quiets or smiles when spoken to.
• Makes vowel sounds like "ohh" and "ahh".

3 to 6 Months of Age:

• Looks for sound with eyes.
• Responds to your voice even when you cannot be seen.
• Enjoys toys that make noise.
• Uses a variety of sounds, squeals, and chuckles.

6 to 9 Months of Age:

• Starts babbling ("baba", "mama", "gaga").
• Turns head toward loud sounds.
• Responds to his or her name.
• Begins to imitate speech sounds.
• Understand "no-no" or "bye-bye".

9 to 12 Months of Age:

• Repeats simple words and sounds you make.
• Correctly uses "mama" or "dada".
• Responds to singing or music.
• Points to favorite toys or objects when asked.

12 to 18 Months of Age:

• Follows simple one step directions
• Uses 3-20 words.
• Points to 1-3 body parts when asked.

18 to 24 Months of Age:

• Understands about 300 words.
• Puts two words together ("eat cookies").
• Points to 5 body parts.
• Responds to "yes" or "no" questions.

If you have any questions about your baby's hearing or this list, contact your doctor or call Children's Medical Services at 1-866-289-2037.

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