The first words a child speaks – “Mama” or “Dada” – are often celebrated milestones. But for children with hearing loss, these utterances require dedicated support and intervention. Tiffany Lim, an auditory-verbal habilitationist (AVH) at KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital (KKH) in Singapore, is helping these children bridge the gap between sound and speech.
A Breakthrough Moment
Lim recalls a particularly moving experience with her first assigned case: a four-year-old who, after years of silence, called out to his mother and grandparents. “Up until then, he was in his own bubble,” she said. This breakthrough underscores the profound impact of early intervention for children with hearing loss.
As an AVH, Lim specializes in helping babies and children develop listening and language skills after receiving hearing devices like hearing aids or cochlear implants. Her work is centered around the family, coaching parents to support their child’s development both during therapy sessions and at home.
The Scope of the Need
The KKH Audiology Service provides care for approximately 2,500 to 3,000 patients with hearing loss annually. These patients range in age from six months to 18 years, with some born with hearing loss and others experiencing it later in life due to infection or other medical conditions. Auditory-verbal therapy is recommended to monitor a child’s use of hearing devices and their progress in spoken language development, according to Lim.
Lim’s path to this specialized field began with a degree in psychology, focusing on child development. She discovered her passion for hands-on work with children during an internship at an early intervention center, solidifying her desire to pursue a helping profession.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does an auditory-verbal habilitationist do?
An auditory-verbal habilitationist helps children with hearing loss develop listening and language skills after they are fitted with hearing devices.
What age range does KKH Audiology Service treat?
The KKH Audiology Service sees children from around six months up to 18 years old.
Is hearing loss something that only occurs at birth?
Some children are born with hearing loss, while others experience it later due to acquired infections or medical conditions.
As the KKH Audiology Service continues to support children and families, advancements in hearing technology and therapeutic techniques could further enhance outcomes for those with hearing loss. It is likewise possible that increased awareness and early detection programs could lead to more children receiving timely intervention.
