First, let's answer a basic question:  What is APD?

Terminology and Definitions (as defined by asha.org)

"In its very broadest sense, APD refers to how the central nervous system (CNS) uses auditory information. However, the CNS is vast and also is responsible for functions such as memory, attention, and language, among others. To avoid confusing APD with other disorders that can affect a person's ability to attend, understand, and remember, it is important to emphasize that APD is an auditory deficit that is not the result of other higher-order cognitive, language, or related disorder."

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How APD is Different from Other Disorders?

The signs of Auditory Processing Disorder in children are not exclusive to APD, and therefore can be difficult to identify. There are many disorders that can affect a person’s ability to understand auditory information, but APD is unique in the fact that it is an auditory deficit that is not the result of other cognitive or language disorders. Although APD may co-exist with other disorders, it is important to accurately diagnose APD in order to differentiate its indicators.

Many children exhibit listening complaints: for example, they may have difficulty understanding speech in noisy environments, following directions, or telling the difference between similar sounds. Many times, these children will ask for repetition or clarification. In school, they tend to do better in classes that don’t place a heavy emphasis on listening.

APD cannot be diagnosed with a “checklist” of symptoms. Many symptoms of APD overlap with other disorders, and not all cases of APD lead to language and learning problems. Many times, a teacher or parents will observe academic difficulties in children. Although psychologists and speech-language pathologists evaluate cognitive function and investigate oral and speech capabilities, the actual diagnosis of APD must be made by an audiologist.

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Little Listeners- Helping Young Minds Learn to Listen

At Little Listeners, we specialize in treating hearing and auditory problems.

We strive to be caring, comprehensive and consultative.  We work hard to foster an environment that gives both doctors and parents peace of mind that their patient or child is in the right hands. Our clinic has been specially designed to provide a warm and child-friendly setting. We strive to make this a fun and effective environment for helping young minds learn to listen.

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