Human beings are pre-programmed for speech. The human ear responds to sounds in-utero at 20 weeks. Every newborn possesses this hearing and speech potential. This does not necessarily mean that they grow into high-functioning children. For the auditory area of the brain to develop, children must receive systematic auditory stimulation through direct and meaningful experiences.

This ‘auditory living’ is even more crucial for children born with a hearing loss. Delayed auditory stimulation results in inefficient language facilities. A baby deprived of appropriate language stimulation during the first three years of life may never fully attain optimal language function.

Early intervention uses the plasticity of the infant brain to stimulate auditory and neural pathways. Appropriate early amplification allows infants to commence auditory living and gives them opportunities they otherwise might never have—to listen, to learn, to enjoy life. It gives them the freedom of choice.