This article reviews current epidemiological studies estimating the prevalence and incidence of permanent hearing loss in children. In particular, it addresses trends in ages of onset of hearing loss and causes. Studies estimating the number of children with hearing loss and additional special needs in various countries are presented, as well as some of the well-known causes of hearing loss which have co-occurring associated disabilities. The case of linguistically diverse children is presented as a new group of children with hearing loss who may function with multiple disabilities.