Hearing

We know every child's learning journey is unique. For tamariki with diverse needs, strong hearing and listening support can make all the difference—at home, in class, and out and about.

1. Free hearing screening in Canterbury schools

Canterbury’s public Vision & Hearing Service offers free routine screens at age 4 (as part of the B4 School Check) and again around Year 7. These happen at early learning centres or schools via mobile vision/hearing technicians. If you miss a test, they’ll follow up—no need to worry! 

2. Audiology and hearing aid services

• Christchurch Hospital Audiology handles in-depth hearing and balance assessments for tamariki, including follow-up from newborn screening and any needed referrals. They also connect families to the Children's Hearing Aid Service for fitting needs.
  
  

• Hearing aids are often funded by the Ministry of Health for children. Extra support—like remote microphone hearing aids (RMHA)—may be available via the Ministry of Education if your child has diagnosed auditory processing challenges. 

3. Specialist clinics that understand diversity

Ear Care for Kids in Canterbury specialises in gentle, child-friendly ear care—everything from wax removal (microsuction) to managing infections and tailoring the experience for tamariki with sensory or communication needs.

4. Support for Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)

Though APD doesn’t qualify for Ministry of Health hearing aid funding, the Ministry of Education can help with RMHA devices for eligible children. Services like SoundSkills help families trial and fit these systems. 

5. Community groups & parent support

Even if your child has cochlear implants or hearing aids, support networks are there for you. National organisations like Deaf Children NZ and Deaf Aotearoa, plus local parent groups, offer information, NZSL classes, and community connections. 

What you can do now

• Actively engage in the free screenings at age 4 and Year 7—if your tamaiti has additional hearing needs, let the team know so they can follow up.
  
  

• If you suspect your child might need further support—whether due to hearing loss, APD, or difficulty with background noise—ask your GP or school to refer them to audiology.
  
  

• Check your child’s eligibility for hearing aid funding or RMHA support. Your audiologist can help apply for Ministry of Health or Education funding.
  
  

• Reach out to clinics like Ear Care for Kids for safe, sensory-aware care when it comes to ear infections or wax build-up.
  
  

• Connect with Deaf Aotearoa or Deaf Children NZ for advice, social opportunities, and support tailored to families of Deaf or hard-of-hearing tamariki.