Dear Ohio Valley Voices Friends and Family,
You may have noticed that in our recent newsletters I have given you a bit of science behind what we do at OVV. This gives you an opportunity to learn and understand the how and why. And when we learn, we use a very important tool, our brain.
“The basic architecture of the brain is constructed through an ongoing process that begins before birth and continues into adulthood. Early experiences affect the quality of that architecture by establishing either a sturdy or a fragile foundation for all the learning, health and behavior that follow” (Center on the Developing Child, 2007). Like all our senses, the ears are just a transportation system that delivers sound to our brain. Before we are born, we begin hearing and learning through sound. A study done in 2013 by Eino Partnen demonstrated that a child can recognize patterns of words from the moment they are born.
So, a child who is born deaf or hard of hearing does not have the advantage of developing hearing pathways to the brain while in utero. In fact, this is why OVV stresses the importance of getting cochlear implants as early as possible and wearing them at least 10 hours a day. By doing this, you are giving a child the best opportunity to listen and speak.
Also…
Congratulations to OVV’s Class of 2023! We had 13 children graduate this year, one of our largest graduating classes ever. Three of the 13 children were 4 years old or younger. As children come to OVV younger and younger, we see positive results of getting cochlear implants early and wearing them at least 10 hours a day. The outcome is better listening and language. We are proud of our children, families and staff that worked together to ensure our children have the best opportunity to soar.
Building update…
We are in the final phase of construction! We’re very excited to start the new school year with a larger learning space. We are looking forward to our grand opening on October 19, 2023. If you want a construction tour to see the before and after, now is a great time! To schedule a tour, contact the Development team at development@ohiovalleyvoices.org.
Warmly,
Maria
Center on the Developing Child. (2007). The science of early childhood development (InBrief). www.developingchild.harvard.edu.