Acquisition of caregiver skills to facilitate communication in children with hearing loss

Abstract

Objective: This study investigates the learning trajectories of primary caregivers of children with hearing loss in acquiring aural-oral teaching and behavioural skills through a structured parent training program.

Design: Study employed a longitudinal design to track the progression of caregiver skills over time. Data were collected at multiple time points to capture changes in caregivers' abilities to recognise, interpret, and respond to their children's communicative behaviours.

Study sample: A longitudinal evaluation was conducted involving the primary caregivers of 271 children with severity range from unilateral to profound of bilateral hearing loss who participated in Auditory-Verbal Intervention between October 1, 2021, and February 18, 2025.

Results: Findings reveal a progressive pattern of skill development, beginning with the recognition and response to children's communicative intent within the first month of training. By the fourth month, caregivers demonstrated increased awareness of child interests, followed by the ability to assess developmental capabilities and apply appropriate strategies by the sixth to eighth month. More advanced skills emerged between the twelfth and twenty-first months.

Conclusions: At least eight months are needed for effective integration of strategies, with full mastery taking up to two years. Sustained support is essential for family success.

Keywords: Hearing loss; auditory-verbal; caregiver learning trajectory; early intervention; family-centered support.