The Importance of Early Hearing Assessments

Written By Jody Vaynshtok

Hearing plays a crucial role in how children learn language, engage socially, and participate in the world around them. Even a mild hearing loss can impact speech development, academic success, and social interactions. That’s why early hearing assessments are one of the most powerful tools in identifying and addressing communication challenges early on.

At Sound, our pediatric audiologists are experts in testing young children in ways that are playful, non-intimidating, and accurate. We use specialized equipment and techniques to assess hearing in babies, toddlers, and school-aged kids. When hearing issues are identified, we work quickly to develop a support plan—whether that involves hearing aids, medical referrals, or ongoing monitoring. The earlier we intervene, the better the outcomes for communication, learning, and confidence.

Jody Vaynshtok
Jody is a California-licensed speech language pathologist with eight years of industry and clinical experience. She has worked with both adult and pediatric populations during her time at private practice, birth-to-three, and hospital facilities. She is experienced in the assessment and treatment of a variety of communication and cognitive disorders. In addition, Jody has a passion for working with adults looking to achieve clearer communication. Jody received her BS in Speech and Hearing Sciences and MS in Medical Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Washington. She was a part of the Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital at Stanford’s cleft and craniofacial clinic participating in the multidisciplinary assessment and treatment of children born with craniofacial abnormalities. She holds a staff position at UCSF and is the lead speech language pathologist for the department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery’s Hearing Loss Clinic. When she's not busy having fun with her clients Jody enjoys spending time with her husband, Anton, friends and family. And if she's not headed out somewhere fun for dinner, you might find her at Bar Method working out!
www.soundshc.com
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