What is the difference between Auditory Verbal (AV) therapy and other approaches?

Auditory Verbal therapy is one approach for families of deaf children for developing spoken language. It differs from other spoken language approaches in how it is delivered and who it is delivered by. 

How an Auditory Verbal therapy programme works:

• It is a parent-coaching programme. Typically, during fortnightly sessions, for an average of 2 and a half years, your family is supported to develop your child’s language skills so that you can use the techniques at home.
• The best outcomes are achieved when your child’s hearing technology (hearing aids or cochlear implants) are working optimally through liaison and working closely with your audiology team.
• It is a play-based approach. Through play, we work to enable your child to listen and talk, and to improve your child’s confidence and their peer interaction. A strong basis in listening provides a solid foundation for the skills needed for learning to read and write. These are all important for time spent in the playground, the classroom and throughout their lives.
• It is individualised. The programme is designed for your child and their needs. The programme is designed for your child and their needs, and you and your child are seen together. Goals are set within a developmental framework and progress is closely monitored in partnership with your family and other professionals who work with you.
• We work together with you to share learnings with professionals, including your teacher of the deaf and speech and language therapist, so the whole team around you are working together to support you and your child.

Find latest evidence and research on AV therapy and outcomes.