Early intervention

Participation in early detection programmes and immediate initiation of Auditory-Verbal Therapy.

In order to benefit from the “critical periods” of neurological and linguistic development; the identification of hearing impairment, use of appropriate amplification and medical technology, and stimulation of hearing must occur as early as possible (Clopton & Winfield, 1976; Johnson & Newport, 1989; Lennenberg, 1967; Marler, 1970; Newport, 1990). If hearing is not accessed during the critical language learning years, a child’s ability to use acoustic input meaningfully will deteriorate due to physiological and psychosocial factors. The physiological factors include retrograde and psycho-social factors include attention, practice and learning (Evans, Webster & Cullen, 1983; Merzenich & Kaas, 1982; Patchett, 1977; Robertson & Irvine, 1989; Webster, 1983).

In September 2005, New Zealand Government made a commitment to introduce new born screening. The next challenge is to ensure that the deaf and hearing impaired children who are diagnosed receive immediate intervention with appropriate amplification.

Immediate Auditory-Verbal Therapy is very important even before the child has received appropriate amplification (hearing aid or cochlear implant). During this time the parent/s will learn how to interact with their child to accelerate their language development once appropriate amplification is achieved. This includes getting into the routine of attending Auditory-Verbal Therapy sessions and implementing the strategies at home. Progress throughout this period is also an indicator of the child’s auditory potential.

Find out more about early intervention: New Born Screening