For parents
Cochlear Implant for Children
Early identification + early implantation + consistent therapy = the best speech and language outcomes for children with severe-to-profound hearing loss.
Earlier is better
Implantation before 18 months gives the strongest language outcomes. Most centres implant from 9–12 months.
Right tests matter
OAE, BERA/ABR, ASSR and audiology — together they confirm diagnosis before CI decision.
Therapy is essential
Auditory verbal therapy + family involvement for 12–24 months is as important as the surgery itself.
Signs your child may need a hearing evaluation
- Doesn't startle to loud sounds in early months
- Doesn't turn to voices by 6 months
- No babbling by 9–10 months
- No words by 12–15 months
- Doesn't respond to name
- Speech delay or unclear speech
- Hearing aids stopped helping