The relationship between recurrent otitis media (middle ear infection characterized by the presence of middle ear fluid and possibly leading to a temporary conductive hearing loss) and learning disabilities (LD) is examined. Traditional treatment approaches (antibiotic medication and surgery) are reviewed. The definition of LD is presented and the linkage between the two conditions is analyzed--the critical period of speech and language development occurs from birth to 3 years of age when children are most susceptible to chronic middle ear infections. Potential effects of the condition are explained to include auditory processing deficits and generalized speech and language deficits. An intervention approach, Project CHILD (Conductive Hearing Impairment Language Development), offering audiological monitoring, medical followup, parent training, and an emphasis on listening and language skill development, is described. (CL)