Expert: Harriet B Jacobster, Au.D. - 7/23/2008

Question
Hi!  My son is 17 months old and not speaking.  At one point we heard him say Mama and Dada for a short period of time.  Now he merely makes a handful of sounds and is not repeating any words we introduce to him.  We call his name over and over and he doesnt look at us or come to us.  If he wants something he will either pull our leg to what he wants or tantrum.  He coos but does not repeat what we say,etc.  He makes the um sound when he likes something and says ah yah when hes engaged.  What we cant understand is why when the tv goes on with Backyardigans or Wonderpets, does he go running to the tv from another room???  He doesnt hear us, but he hears the tv?  We dont understand what's going on.  He doesnt give alot of eye contact.  We are scared that he is going to be tested for hearing and come to find out that he is on the Autism Spectrum.  Is it possible, that he can hear the tv and not us, or that he is having issues with frequencies?  Any insight would be great.  Thanks so much!!!

Nicole Valera

Answer
Hi Nicole,
It is imperative that you have your child's hearing tested immediately.  This is nothing to be scared about, but your son's difficulties need to be evaluated and addressed to ensure that he develops as near to normal as possible. At 17 months and not talking, he is already behind age appropriate behavior. As for the TV, I can only think that maybe he sees the picture somehow and that is how he knows it's on.  
Hope this helps.
Harriet B. Jacobster, AuD
Board Certified in Audiology