Central auditory processing disorder

Central auditory processing disorder (CAPD) is a condition in which the ears and the brain do not work well together. People with CAPD can hear, but the brain has trouble processing the sounds. They have trouble:

• Telling the difference among similar sounds in words.
• Making sense of what is said to them.
• Blocking out background noise.
• Knowing where a sound is coming from.

CAPD is not an intellectual disability. It also isn't autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or simply "bad" behavior. With treatment, people who have CAPD can learn to cope with it.

Parents and teachers often first notice the symptoms of CAPD in school. Symptoms include:

• Having trouble understanding discussions in a noisy classroom.
• Struggling with spelling and reading aloud.
• Asking often for parents and teachers to repeat what they've said.

CAPD is diagnosed by an audiologist through a series of tests. The audiologist and your child's doctor will make sure that the symptoms are not being caused by another condition. An audiologist is a health professional who measures hearing loss. They will:

• Test for any actual loss of hearing.
• Test your child to see how well they can tell sounds apart.
• Ask you and your child's teachers about your child's listening behavior.

Testing usually starts when the child is at least 7 or 8 years old. The audiologist takes into account your child's age, language development, and cultural background when doing the tests.

Treatment is planned specially for your child. It may include:

• Training in listening skills.
• Having your child wear a device that fits in the ear. It makes speech louder while reducing background noise.
• Working with a speech therapist.

Your child's hearing develops as they grow older. Continuing to develop skills over time can help your child cope with CAPD.

Your child may also get help from their school. Ask about programs that identify your child's needs and set goals for learning.

You can help support your child's treatment. Try reducing background noise whenever you can. Teach your child to watch the person who is speaking. Your child's teacher can help by placing your child at the front of the classroom. This helps them focus.