Invisible Hearing Aids
CC Saha provides outstanding service in healthcare network. With innovative technological advancement like invisible protective shield…
September 18, 2018
How Speech Therapy helps Children
with Cochlear Implants Improve Communication
WHAT the parents need to know
Every parent dreams of the day their child says “Mama” or “Papa” for the first time. For parents of young kids with cochlear implants, this moment has a different kind of magic. After the surgery, a new world of sound opens up—yet speaking and understanding sounds don’t just happen overnight. Imagine your child experiencing the buzz of Kolkata’s streets, hearing the hum of a rickshaw for the first time, or listening to the sounds of a crowded Durga Puja celebration. Now, think of helping them put words to those sounds. It’s a journey, one that takes patience, love, and some expert guidance.
This is where CC Saha Hearing Clinics steps in. With over 90 years of experience helping families, they understand that speech development after cochlear implant surgery is as much about the heart as it is about skill. In each speech therapy session, the clinic’s experienced therapists engage kids in playful, sound-rich activities. Parents are encouraged to participate too, learning techniques to carry the progress home. From storytelling to interactive games, the sessions are designed to be engaging and supportive. With these tools and a little imagination, everyday sounds turn into valuable opportunities to speak and understand.
So, where do you, as a parent, begin? The answer is simple: right here, with your family’s daily sounds, routines, and the vibrant backdrop of Kolkata. Let’s explore easy ways to nurture your child’s voice, one joyful sound at a time.
Table of Contents
A cochlear implant is like handing your child a key to a world full of sound, but here’s the thing—it takes time to learn how to unlock that world fully. When a child receives a cochlear implant, they’re suddenly introduced to sounds they’ve never heard before. Imagine hearing voices, birds, music, and all those everyday sounds for the first time. But knowing what they mean and, more importantly, how to respond is an entirely different skill set.
That’s where speech therapy comes in. Think of it as a bridge between hearing sounds and using them to communicate. In these sessions, trained therapists work with your child to connect the sounds they’re hearing with the words they need to express themselves. It’s like teaching a new language, with therapists gently guiding children to associate sounds with meaning, words, and eventually sentences. Speech therapy transforms hearing into understanding and understanding into speech.
At CC Saha Ltd, the therapists introduce sounds gradually and then help your child practice repeating them. They use storytelling, games, and even song to help kids learn at their own pace. Parents are a big part of this journey, too, often joining in to learn practical tips they can use at home.
Let’s explore how you can use simple, everyday moments to support your child’s speech therapy journey in Kolkata.
1. Sound Safari in the City
How it Helps: Exposure to sounds enhances listening.
What to Do: Take your child on “Sound Safaris.” Listen to the sounds of the city, whether it’s the call of a fruit vendor or the hum of traffic. Point out each sound and name it. Encourage them to mimic sounds to build awareness and excitement for new noises.
2. Storytime Adventures
How it Helps: Develops vocabulary and comprehension.
What to Do: Settle in with picture books and tell stories that you both can act out. Use expressive tones and gestures to bring words alive. A story about Nicco Park or about the Durga Puja which can connect sounds to real-life Kolkata imagery.
3. Name Game
How it Helps: Teaches word-object association.
What to Do: Point to everyday items, from your morning chai to a busy rickshaw, and say their names. Make it a fun “repeat after me” game. Kids love games, and it’s a fantastic way to introduce words they’ll recognize on Kolkata’s lively streets.
4. Bengali Basics
How it Helps: Encourages multilingual development.
What to Do: Living in Kolkata, children have the unique chance to learn Bengali words alongside English. Try saying “bhalo” (good) or “dhonnobad” (thank you). Using familiar Bengali words can help reinforce their understanding of sounds.
5. Playful Puppet Shows
How it Helps: Boosts engagement and creativity.
What to Do: Create a puppet show starring your child’s favorite animals or family members. Use voices for different characters, and encourage your child to play along. Watching and repeating dialogue brings speaking practice into a playful, low-stress environment.
6. The Kolkata Kitchen Sounds
How it Helps: Links daily routines to sound recognition.
What to Do: Kitchen sounds like the whistle of a pressure cooker or the clang of dishes are great for speech development. Talk about each sound while cooking, name utensils, and even sing a fun song like “cut the carrot, chop the potato” together!
7. Echo Games with Mirrors
How it Helps: Improves pronunciation and self-awareness.
What to Do: Stand in front of a mirror with your child, say words, and encourage them to watch their mouth movements. Words like “hello,” “papa,” and “mama” are simple and rewarding. Over time, they’ll enjoy seeing and hearing themselves speak.
8. Rhymes from the Heart
How it Helps: Builds rhythm and phonetics.
What to Do: Rhyming games can be magical for young children. Recite short rhymes and songs that have a Kolkata vibe—“Ekir Mikir” or the classic “Humpty Dumpty.” Singing together not only enhances phonetic awareness but also makes language familiar.
With over 90 years of experience, CC Saha Ltd. is Kolkata’s one-stop solution for hearing support, including pediatric cochlear implants and post-surgery speech therapy. The expert team understands that Kolkata’s vibrant backdrop provides parents with unique tools for speech development, turning everyday city life into rich learning moments. From quality hearing devices to accessible therapy services, CC Saha’s dedication to your child’s progress is unparalleled.
The sounds that fill the air bring unique learning experiences. Whether you’re clapping along with a puppet show or naming sounds on a “Sound Safari,” these everyday practices build your child’s confidence and language skills one sound at a time. With CC Saha Ltd. as your partner in this journey, you’re not just supporting speech development—you’re opening up a world of sound, voice, and possibilities.
Check out our previous blog to know more about → Understanding Cochlear Implants for Children in Kolkata
FAQs on Speech Therapy for Children with Cochlear Implant
How soon can I start speech therapy after cochlear implant surgery?
Speech therapy generally begins a few weeks post-surgery, once the implant settings are adjusted and your child has had time to adjust to sound.
What is the role of parents in speech therapy?
Parents play a vital role by practicing therapy techniques at home, making speech learning fun and consistent.
Are there specific activities for younger children (ages 1.5-3)?
Yes! Songs, rhymes, and naming objects around the house are highly effective for younger kids.
Can speaking Bengali at home impact speech therapy progress?
Multilingual exposure, including Bengali, often enhances language development. Speech therapists can advise on integrating both languages.
How do I know if my child is progressing well?
Track your child’s listening and speaking skills weekly. Celebrate small milestones, like responding to sounds or saying new words.
What if my child doesn’t show interest in speech activities?
It’s normal! Children may need gentle encouragement. Find activities they enjoy, and introduce sounds through play.
Is there financial assistance for cochlear implant surgery and therapy?
In Kolkata, some medical grants or subsidies might be available. Ask at CC Saha Ltd. for guidance on financial support options.
How can I help my child speak in complete sentences?
Encourage longer responses by asking open-ended questions. For example, “What did you hear at the park?”
Can I use technology to support speech therapy?
Yes, apps designed for speech practice can be useful, but traditional techniques at home remain impactful.
What’s the ideal duration for daily practice?
Around 10-15 minutes a few times a day works well. Keep sessions short, engaging, and spread out to avoid fatigue.
How do I keep my child motivated?
Make practice playful! Use props, toys, and local sounds to keep activities fun.
Will my child be able to attend a regular school later?
Many children with cochlear implants successfully attend regular schools. Early therapy support is key.
Can grandparents help with speech activities?
Absolutely! Grandparents can be a delightful source of songs, stories, and language practice.
What should I do if I feel overwhelmed?
It’s natural to feel this way. Connect with CC Saha Ltd. for support and guidance—they’re here to help you every step of the way.
At C.C. Saha Ltd., we provide a comprehensive range of hearing solutions that include the testing of a patient’s ability to detect tones at different frequencies. Our highly skilled Audiologists conduct a thorough examination, taking into account the patient’s hearing loss history, lifestyle choices, and needs, and then recommend the best possible hearing solution.
We are present across the city of Kolkata, at Esplanade, Prince Anwar Shah Road, Dunlop, Salt Lake, and Barasat. We also have clinics at Midnapore and Burdwan.
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