Visual reinforcement audiometry (VRA) is the gold standard hearing assessment procedure. It is a combination of both visual and auditory stimuli uses conventional toys and speakers to estimate hearing. The aim of the study is to develop digital animated VRA instrumentation and to test the feasibility of the tool in screening young children. The study was carried out in two phases, wherein the development of the age appropriate digital video animated clips and the VRA system as a part of phase I. Phase II focused on exploring the feasibility of the newly developed instrument with digital images. Two groups of 21 typically developing children underwent VRA hearing testing in a sound treated room. Children of three different age groups (7-12 month, 13-24 months, 25-36 months) were included in the study. Results indicates that older children (13 to 36 months) demonstrated greater interest and anticipation for the newly developed system of VRA. It is evident that the newly developed VRA system is a clinically plausible option for testing hearing in young children.

Keywords: Visual Reinforcement Audiometry (VRA), Auditory stimulus, Visual stimulus, Digital animated images, Hearing screening.