Auditory Verbal Therapy
(AVT)
What is Auditory Verbal Therapy?
Auditory Verbal Therapy (AVT) is a specialized type of therapy designed to help children with hearing loss develop spoken language through listening. Unlike other forms of therapy that may rely on visual cues or sign language, AVT focuses solely on auditory skills. By emphasizing the use of residual hearing—whether through hearing aids, cochlear implants, or other listening devices—AVT enables children to process sounds and develop speech in a natural and effective manner. The ultimate goal of AVT is to integrate children with hearing loss into the hearing world, enabling them to communicate effectively in spoken language.
What to Expect.
When starting AVT based training parents can expect a highly interactive and family-centered approach. Therapy sessions typically involve both the child and their caregivers, ensuring that strategies learned in therapy can be reinforced at home.
During the initial session the therapist will evaluate the specific listening and communication needs of your child and formulate therapy goals and expectations to tailor the approach to your needs.
The sessions are usually structured around listening and spoken language activities tailored to the child’s age, developmental stage, and individual needs.
The therapist may use games, songs, and other engaging activities to make learning enjoyable and effective. Over time, the child will learn to associate sounds with meaning, leading to improvements in speech and language skills.
How it Helps.
Auditory Verbal Therapy plays a crucial role in helping children with hearing loss achieve their full potential in spoken language development. By focusing on listening skills, AVT helps children develop the ability to hear and interpret sounds, which is essential for understanding language and communicating effectively. This method not only supports the development of clear speech but also enhances cognitive and social skills, allowing children to engage more fully with their peers and the world around them.
With consistent therapy, many children who undergo AVT are able to attend mainstream schools, participate in regular activities, and lead lives indistinguishable from their hearing peers. Early intervention is key, as the brain’s plasticity is greatest during the early years, making it easier for children to learn and adapt.
Auditory Verbal Therapy based Training at Frolic Expressions Therapy House is designed to provide the best possible outcomes for children with hearing loss, helping them thrive in a hearing world.
