Understanding Auditory Processing Disorder
Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) is a condition where the brain has difficulty processing the sounds it hears, even though hearing itself may be normal. Children with APD often struggle in noisy environments like classrooms, have difficulty following verbal instructions, and may appear to not listen. At SpeakClearly in Johannesburg, we specialise in APD assessment and therapy.
What Causes APD?
The exact cause of APD is not always clear. It can be related to chronic ear infections in early childhood, premature birth, head injuries, or neurological differences. In many cases, no specific cause is identified.
Signs of APD in Children
- Difficulty understanding speech in noisy environments
- Frequently asking “what?” or “huh?”
- Trouble following multi-step verbal instructions
- Difficulty distinguishing between similar-sounding words
- Poor reading and spelling skills
- Difficulty with phonics and sounding out words
- Appearing to hear but not understand
- Being easily distracted by background noise
How Is APD Diagnosed?
APD is diagnosed through a comprehensive audiological assessment that goes beyond a standard hearing test. A paediatric audiologist is the right specialist for this assessment in children. At SpeakClearly, our audiologists use specialised tests to evaluate how the brain processes auditory information. Testing is typically done from age 7 onwards, though earlier screening is possible.
Treatment and Support
APD management typically involves a combination of:
- Auditory training: Exercises to improve the brain’s ability to process sounds
- Environmental modifications: Classroom accommodations such as preferential seating and FM systems
- Compensatory strategies: Teaching children to use visual cues and other strategies
- Speech-language therapy: Addressing any related language or literacy difficulties
Get Your Child Assessed
If you suspect your child may have APD, early identification and intervention can make a significant difference. Contact SpeakClearly at 060 361 0834 or admin@speakclearly.co.za to book an assessment at our Johannesburg practice.