Audiometry typically involves presenting sounds at various frequencies and volumes to determine how well an individual can hear. The test is often conducted in a soundproof room using headphones or ear inserts, and it is non-invasive, safe, and painless.

The results are plotted on an audiogram, a chart that shows the softest sound the person can hear at each frequency. The audiogram helps determine if the person has normal hearing or hearing loss, and if so, its type (sensorineural, conductive, or mixed) and severity.

Children under 5 years old may have difficulty participating in traditional audiometry because they lack the language or motor skills to respond appropriately.

In CPA, the child is trained to associate a sound with a fun, simple task. For example, the child might be asked to put a block in a bucket, stack a ring on a peg, or place a toy in a box whenever they hear a sound.

Another hearing test used primarily for infants and young children (typically 6 months to 2.5 years old) who cannot yet respond verbally or with motor tasks in traditional audiometry.

VRA is a method used to assess a child’s hearing by associating a sound with a visual reward, making the test engaging and effective for young children.