When a child does not respond to their name being called and does not make eye contact, it could be a sign of a developmental or communication disorder. Here are some examples of conditions that could cause these symptoms:

• Autism spectrum disorder: Children with autism spectrum disorder may have difficulty with social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors. They may not respond to their name being called or make eye contact with others.

• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): Children with ADHD may have difficulty focusing on tasks or paying attention to people when they are speaking to them. They may not respond to their name being called or make eye contact because they are distracted or hyperfocused on something else.

• Hearing impairment: If a child has a hearing impairment, they may not respond to their name being called because they are unable to hear it. They may also have difficulty making eye contact because they are not aware that someone is trying to communicate with them.

• Intellectual disability: Children with intellectual disability may have difficulty with communication and understanding social cues. They may not respond to their name being called or make eye contact because they do not understand that someone is trying to communicate with them.

• Selective mutism: Children with selective mutism may not speak in certain situations, such as when they are around unfamiliar people or in new environments. They may not respond to their name being called or make eye contact because they are anxious or uncomfortable.

Recommendations for Parents

If you suspect that your child has a developmental or communication disorder, it is important to seek further evaluation from a healthcare professional. Here are some general recommendations for parents in handling children with lack of name recall:

• Get a hearing test: Get BERA hearing test performed by a trained audiologist to rule out any hearing impairments.

• Use the child's name consistently: Use the child's name consistently in daily interactions, such as during playtime, mealtimes, or bath time. This can help the child become familiar with their name and increase the likelihood of them responding when their name is called.

• Get the child's attention: Before calling the child's name, make sure you have their attention. You can do this by making eye contact, tapping them on the shoulder, or using a visual or auditory cue.

• Positive reinforcement: Positive reinforcement can be used to increase the frequency of desirable behaviors, such as responding to their name. This involves rewarding the child for engaging in the desired behavior.

• Repetition and consistency: Repeat calling the child's name, and do so consistently across different environments and situations. Over time, the child may become more familiar with their name and more likely to respond.

• Seek the help of a behavioral therapist: A behavioral therapist can provide communication and social skills training for the child. This can help improve their ability to communicate and engage in social interactions.

Conclusion

It is important for parents to be aware of the signs and symptoms of developmental or communication disorders, such as when a child does not respond to their name being called and does not make eye contact. Seeking early intervention and treatment can lead to better outcomes for the child's overall development. With proper evaluation, treatment, and support from healthcare professionals, parents can assist their children in developing communication skills that will set them up for success.