Auditory Processing Disorder
What is Auditory Processing Disorder?
When we hear someone speaking, we use auditory processing skills to interpret the message correctly. This is a neurological function that requires attention and coordination between our ears (where we receive the sound) and our brains (where we interpret the sound). If auditory processing speeds are too slow or impaired, the auditory signal that we are receiving (e.g. someone speaking) won’t be interpreted correctly and it may be difficult to understand what someone is saying.
Auditory processing disorder (APD), isn’t a hearing loss or a learning disorder. It’s not a problem with understanding meaning.
What are the Signs of Auditory Processing Disorder
- Mishears sounds and words?
- Noisy environments overwhelming when my child is trying to listen?
- Listening behaviors and performance improve in quieter settings?
trouble following verbal directions, whether simple or complicated? - Easily distracted and/or difficulty focusing
- Does my child have trouble with spelling or phonics?
- Difficulty recalling details from conversations or read-aloud stories
- Are verbal (word) math problems hard for my child?
- Conversations hard for the child to follow
