Hearing loss can affect a child's development of speech and language skills. When a child has difficulty hearing, the areas of the brain used for communication may not develop appropriately. This makes understanding and talking very difficult. ... Most hearing losses are identified through a screening at birth.

Does hearing loss affect speech in adults?

Hearing loss can affect speech in adults, but not in the way you might think. Adult hearing loss primarily affects speech perception rather than speech production. This means that adult hearing loss not just a sensory problem—there are also communication issues that are important to address.

Can hearing problems cause speech delay?

There are four major ways in which a hearing loss affects children: It causes delay in the development of receptive and expressive communication skills (speech and language). The language deficit causes learning problems that result in reduced academic achievement.