What is a common effect of undiagnosed hearing loss in children?

Undiagnosed hearing loss in children can lead to significant delays in both receptive and expressive communication skills. This is due to the crucial role hearing plays in language acquisition and development. Children with hearing loss may struggle to hear spoken language adequately, which can affect their ability to understand and use language effectively. This often results in difficulties in following conversations, participating in social interactions, and expressing themselves clearly. As language skills are foundational for academic learning and social engagement, these communication delays can significantly impact a child's overall development and success in various environments.