How does language acquisition work in children with cochlear implants?

If a child is born deaf or with profound hearing loss, the parents are faced with a vital decision: What to do? Hearing is a decisive factor for language acquisition and further development.

Dr. Doris-Maria Denk-Linnert is an ENT specialist and Head of the Division of Phoniatrics and Speech Therapy at MedUni Vienna University Hospital. For her, it is clear that parents whose children are born deaf or with profound hearing loss should be supported from several sides. "It's essential to work on an interdisciplinary basis," emphasizes Dr Denk-Linnert. Until the initial shock of the diagnosis has been overcome, parents should above all be informed about the options and opportunities that are now available.

"Parents need to be told how important hearing is for speech development. And this in turn is embedded in a person's overall development."

The earlier, the better

In order to enable normal language acquisition with a cochlear implant, the expert recommends implantation within the first year of life. Early support is also crucial. This aims to support the abilities of affected children and their parents. The focus is on promoting communication skills, integrating hearing and providing holistic, developmental educational support. "It has been shown that the more committed the parents are, the better it is for the child. Early hearing support is an essential part of the hearing journey," emphasizes Dr. Denk-Linnert.

It is also beneficial for a child's development to come into contact with music at a very early age: "Children who make music have an advantage in language development and language acquisition with cochlear implants. Personal acoustic input and interaction with the children is also a key factor."

Exchange facilitates decision

Contact with other parents and implanted children often gives hope in such situations. Many fears can be allayed when parents see how their child can develop in the future. Many parents also find it useful to be able to talk to like-minded people during the course of early intervention and accompanying therapy.

In many regions, regular meetings are therefore organized where parents can network. At the same time, the children have the opportunity to play with other hearing-impaired children in a group.

Still have questions about language acquisition with a cochlear implant? You can find the full interview with Dr. Denk-Linnert here.