CAPD is a disruption in the brain’s ability to effectively and efficiently use auditory information, thus having a profound influence on the individual’s ability to listen and learn.Individuals with Auditory processing disorders come across as though they have a hearing loss when in fact, their hearing is often within normal limits.

CAPD has been noted to co-exist with a number of other disorders like ADHD, autism, language impairment, dyslexia and learning disability.

Children with CAPD might exhibit the following:

• Is easily distracted by background noise/difficulty hearing in noisy situations.
• Difficulty following long conversations.
• Difficulty taking notes.
• Easily distracted by other sounds in the environment.
• Does not listen carefully to directions and often need instructions to be repeated.
• Forgets what is said in a few minutes.
• Has difficulty recalling a sequence that has been heard.
• Experiences problems with sound discriminations.

• Says “huh” & “what” a lot (at least 5 times in a day)
• Does not pay attention to what is being said.
• Difficulty with reading and/or spelling.
• Difficulty with organisational skills.
• Has a history of hearing loss.
• Has a history of ear infections.
• Day dreams a lot.

How to help a child with Auditory Processing Disorder?

A multidisciplinary approach is crucial for accurate diagnosis. Members of the team typically include a Speech Language Pathologist, Psychologist, Teacher, Parents and Audiologist. The Audiologist performs a comprehensive test that are specific to the person’s age, language, auditory problems and cognitive abilities. Treatment options are as outlined below.

• Use of specialised computer based programmes that are specifically recommended by the Audiologist depending on child’s needs.
• Use of an assistive listening device such as a personal FM system or sound field system. This allows the child to hear the teacher’s voice directly even if there is other distracting background noise.
• Speech in noise training.
• Direct therapy in the form of Phonologic/Auditory awareness training.
• Breaking instructions into simple steps.
• Sitting close to the teacher in the classroom so that the child can hear the teacher's voice louder.
• Written instructions can be given to get the message through.
• Acoustic modifications.

• Reduce noise in the classroom.
• Quiet study place at home.
• Encourage the child to ask the teacher/parent to repeat what has been said if they haven’t understood the instructions.
• Gaining attention prior to speaking.
• Generous use of positive reinforcement.
• Teachers and parents to check on child’s comprehension
• Pre teaching new information or vocabulary.
• Provision of a note taker.
• Avoidance of auditory fatigue.

The Audiologist who performs the assessment would discuss the options based on what is best suited to the child’s needs. At Agape we perform a comprehensive Auditory Processing Assessment in a professional yet friendly manner at the child’s own pace.