Deaf infants, early intervention and language acquisition

Abstract

This paper gives an overview of how earlier identification of and intervention for hearing‐impairment may benefit the deaf infant's acquisition of a symbolic language. Components of language development are considered in relation to Robinshaw's recent (1993) longitudinal study comparing the communication and language skills of normally‐hearing and early‐identified and aided deaf babies. Visual‐gestural and auditory‐vocal modes of communication are of interest. It is concluded, that the role of the caregiver is central to the planning and success of early intervention and habilitation of deaf infants.