Initiating early intervention at younger ages could help deaf children be kindergarten-ready

A small study finds that early intervention for children with permanent hearing loss can help them be ready for kindergarten at the same time as kids without hearing loss. Scientists analyzed 2008-2014 data from nearly 800 children in Ohio with permanent hearing loss and who got early intervention, consisting of therapy, audiological treatment, or home visits with a specialist. A third of those who began getting help before 6 months of age were considered kindergarten-ready (based on assessment of four areas including language and social skills), compared to 21% of those who got intervention past this age. And a similar proportion of deaf children who got early intervention at a younger age were considered kindergarten-ready as children without hearing impairment in the general Ohio population.