What is Central Auditory Processing?

Central Auditory Processing (CAP) refers to a group of skills which we use to interpret and store what we have heard. CAP skills typically develop in the first five years of life along with receptive and expressive language. Children who have a delay or disruption in the development of these skills may have Central Auditory Processing Disorders (CAPD).

Diagnosing CAPD

The diagnosis of CAPD begins with an audiological evaluation. From there, the audiologist will administer a battery of specialized word, number and pitch recognition tests designed to measure the child’s auditory performance. These tests are designed to simulate the stress on the child’s auditory system during daily listening activities. Specific weakness areas will be identified and recommendations will be made to assist parents and teachers to create an acoustic environment more conducive to improving listening skills.