The development of communication and language in deaf preschool children with cochlear implants

The study is an ongoing longitudinal and qualitative psycho-social study of the communicative development in 19 preschool children with cochlear implants, using sign language. The children are video-recorded in natural interactional settings. Analysis of patterns of communication show that 16 of the children use sign language in communication with adults and peers. With regard to oral communication, 13 children were observed to utter single words or speech-like sounds upon an adult's request, but seldom used spoken words spontaneously. Six children used single spoken words in dialogues with adults if the content of the dialogue was about the here and now, and if the topic of reference was clear. None of the children in the study were able to take part in age-adequate play activities with peers when speech was used in communication. The results are discussed in reference to early mother-infant interaction, the development of communication and language, and the significance of early close relationships for children's social and emotional development.