Two new studies have been referenced by the Hearing Review concerning children and Cochlear Implants. This is particularly interesting for Lily who is entering Kindergarten this fall with minimal services. This research recommends that we remain vigilant with intensive language supports, at least through the early elementary years.
Both papers are based on a decade-long study that has followed over 100 children with hearing loss and normal hearing, some from birth, with a goal of establishing predictors of future language abilities and the long-term extent of support needed for their success. The studies offer a look at what measures are the most accurate predictors, and the types of interventions that may improve literacy.
In "Measuring what matters: Effectively predicting language and literacy in children with cochlear implants," published in International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology, her goal was to evaluate how well various language measures typically used with very young children after they receive cochlear implants predict language and literacy skills as they enter school. The study included 50 children, some with normal hearing and some with cochlear implants. She concluded that before 24 months of age, the best predictor of later language success is language comprehension. In general, measures that index a child's cognitive processing of language are the most sensitive predictors of school-age language abilities.
The second article published in Ear and Hearing, "Emergent Literacy in Kindergartners with Cochlear Implants," examined the early or emergent literacy of young cochlear implant recipients. The study looked at 27 deaf children with CIs, who had just completed kindergarten and had been tested on emergent literacy, and on cognitive and linguistic skills that support emergent literacy.
They found that intensive language support needs to continue through at least the early elementary grades for these patients. Also, a period of bimodal stimulation during the preschool years can help boost emergent literacy skills to some extent.
Umm... Susan the next statement should actually be reversed:
"Susan, you've just had a fun-filled, exciting trip to Disney World, what are you going to do next?"
"I'm going to post a comprehensive blog regarding the latest research on the need for intensive language support throughout the elementary years YEAHHHHHH!!!!!"
Posted by: Philip | July 16, 2012 at 08:44 AM
More posts to come! Trying to caption a video last night. Not as easy as it sounds
Posted by: Lily's Mom | July 16, 2012 at 08:47 AM