Child Cochlear Implant
Therapy goals & milestones after CI
Therapy progress is mapped to listening, language and speech milestones. Tools like LittlEARS, MAIS, IT-MAIS and language sampling help track gains.
Common milestones after switch-on:
• Weeks 1–4: sound awareness — startles to loud sound, attends to voice.
• Months 1–3: detection of Ling sounds (a, oo, ee, sh, s, m).
• Months 3–6: discrimination of words with different number of syllables; first vocalisations.
• Months 6–12: first meaningful words.
• Year 2: short phrases.
• Year 3–4: conversational speech.
Progress varies; the therapist tailors goals to each child.
Medical disclaimer: This information is for awareness and education only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified ENT surgeon, audiologist or medical professional. Cochlear implant eligibility must be determined after clinical evaluation and diagnostic testing.
Reviewed by HearClear Clinical Editorial Team · Last reviewed: 2026-06-15