Auditory Processing Disorder symptoms can be hard to spot as they may be similar to other learning difficulties, such as ADHD. So how can you tell if your child has APD?
In fact, on the surface, APD and ADHD can look pretty similar. So it’s not uncommon for people to be diagnosed with ADHD when they actually have APD. And to add an extra layer of complexity, the conditions can coexist!
Auditory processing disorder symptoms vs. ADHD symptoms
Individuals with APD have difficulty listening and following instructions because their brain has trouble processing sound. Those with ADHD don’t struggle to process sound, they struggle to pay attention.
People with APD usually complain of trouble listening and frequently needing to request clarification, but tend to be better at listening and focusing in quiet environments. Kids with ADHD typically have trouble paying attention and fidget in any environment.
If you have trouble processing spoken information due to APD, you’re going to have a hard time paying attention and remembering what you learn.
What are the symptoms of Auditory Processing Disorder?
Someone with APD:
- has poor listening skills
- has difficulty hearing in background noise
- has trouble following instructions
- Experiences difficulty with sound discrimination (distinguishing when sounds are different/the same)
- struggles academically
- often responds with ‘huh?’ or ‘what?’
- is easily distracted
- is inattentive
- learns better one-on-one
There’s more to the Auditory Processing Disorder story, though
Since there are varying forms of auditory processing difficulties you many not experience all the symptoms listed above. The above list is not an exhaustive list of all Auditory Processing Disorder symptoms.
If you think you may have Auditory Processing Disorder, get our Auditory Processing Difficulties Info Pack & Checklist. It’s a free screening tool you can use to determine whether auditory processing difficulties are evident.
If you’d like to identify your learning strengths & weaknesses, please complete our Online Learning Assessment. It will help you identify where you may need help.
Video: What is Auditory Processing Disorder?
Dr Martha Burns explains auditory processing disorder and how it impacts learning.
References
Checklist developed by Sonic Learning 2009. Adapted from Fisher’s Auditory Problems’ Checklist Fisher, L., I., (1985) Learning Disabilities and Auditory Processing in VanHattum, R. J. (Ed.), Administration of Speech-Language Services in the Schools, College Hill Press pp. 231-292
Learn more & contact us
Get the APD checklist & info pack
A self-screening checklist for Auditory Processing Disorder with helpful resources.
Complete our Online Learning Assessment
Identify learning strengths and weaknesses and get personalised program recommendations.
Book a free phone consult
This free telephone consultation can help to answer any questions you have about our services. At Sonic Learning we are all experienced teachers and health professionals so parents tend to find it very beneficial to be able to discuss their concerns and receive guidance from our team.