Can newborns hear their parents’ voices?
Talking and singing are easy ways to spend time with your baby. A response to a voice isn’t a substitute for a newborn hearing screen.
The short answer
Newborns can hear. The American Academy of Pediatrics says babies quickly recognize their mother's voice and may recognize a partner's voice too. You can talk or sing during ordinary care, but a response to sound can’t replace a hearing screen. Follow your local screening program and ask a doctor if you have concerns.
Your baby can hear your voice
The American Academy of Pediatrics explains that newborns can hear and quickly recognize their mother's voice. It says a partner's voice may also be familiar. A familiar voice can be part of everyday comfort and interaction, but every baby responds in their own way.
You can talk about what you’re doing, sing a short song or speak softly during a feed or change. There is no need to play sounds loudly or repeatedly test whether your baby turns toward you.
A hearing screen checks something different
A newborn hearing screen is a specific test. In England, the NHS says screening is usually offered before a baby is four weeks old, with a later window for babies who need it. Other countries have their own programs and schedules.
The NHS says screening in England is usually offered before a baby is four weeks old and can be done up to three months of age. A baby may not react clearly to a sound for many reasons, and a reaction doesn’t prove that hearing is normal. Don’t use a home sound test in place of the screening appointment or a professional assessment.
Ask if you are unsure about screening or hearing
If you have not been told how or when your baby will be screened, contact the maternity or child health service in your area. If you’re worried about your baby’s hearing, tell your midwife or doctor even if the newborn screen showed a clear result.
This summary combines U.S. pediatric information about newborn behaviour with the England screening pathway. The local screening process may differ where you live.
Sources and further reading
Sources checked 12 October 2026. This page doesn’t replace advice from your own doctor.