As a speech-language pathologist, you are undoubtedly aware of the multifaceted challenges faced by children with cochlear implants (CIs). The research article titled "Impact of Auditory-Verbal Therapy on executive functions in children with Cochlear Implants" provides compelling evidence that Auditory-Verbal Therapy (AVT) can significantly enhance executive functions in these children. This blog aims to help you integrate these findings into your practice and encourage further research in this area.
Understanding Executive Functions
Executive functions encompass a set of cognitive abilities that include:
- Shifting: The ability to move freely from one activity to another.
- Inhibition: The capability to resist impulses and stop behaviors at the appropriate time.
- Emotional Control: The ability to control or adjust one's emotional responses.
- Working Memory: The ability to hold information in memory for task completion.
- Organization/Planning: The capability to manage current and future-oriented tasks.
These functions are critical for the lifetime performance of children and facilitate the development of social, emotional, and cognitive skills.
Research Findings on AVT
The study conducted by Ashori et al. (2022) involved 36 children with CIs aged 2-4 years. Participants were divided into a control group and a study group that received 20 sessions of AVT over 10 weeks. The Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function Pre-school Version (BRIEF-P) was used to assess executive functions before and after the intervention.
The results indicated significant improvements in executive functions and all subscales, including shifting, inhibition, emotional control, working memory, and organization/planning, in the study group compared to the control group.
Implementing AVT in Practice
Given the positive outcomes highlighted in the study, integrating AVT into your practice can be highly beneficial for children with CIs. Here are some steps to consider:
- Early Identification: Ensure early assessment and identification of hearing levels.
- Parental Involvement: Encourage parents to participate in all rehabilitation sessions.
- Individualized Plans: Develop individualized AVT programs tailored to each child's needs.
- Continuous Monitoring: Regularly assess and adjust the AVT program based on the child's progress.
Encouraging Further Research
While the study provides robust evidence for the efficacy of AVT, further research is essential to explore its long-term effects and potential applications in different contexts. Consider collaborating with researchers or conducting your own studies to contribute to this growing field.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Impact of Auditory-Verbal Therapy on executive functions in children with Cochlear Implants.
