The ability to listen is the very first skill we develop in the womb, and it’s crucial for cognitive growth. Thankfully, infants born with hearing loss have a few options to keep their development on track. Our experts this week explore the science of pediatric audiology, how to make an early diagnosis, and the cochlear implant journey.
Guest Information:
- Dr. Nancy Young, medical director of Audiology and Cochlear Implant Programs, The Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Lillian S. Wells professor in pediatric otolaryngology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
- Eva Tweedy, parent; Doug Tweedy, parent
Listening is the first skill we develop. At just 18 weeks in the womb, babies begin hearing language and rhythms – and it’s not simply for entertainment. At this very beginning of life, it’s helping to shape our cognitive development and how we learn to communicate.
Thankfully, every state now has a universal screening program for babies that’s done very soon after birth. It’s this test that alerted Eva and Doug Tweedy to their daughter’s hearing issues.
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