A study to evaluate if an online parent training programme can help to improve language development in young deaf children with cochlear implants
This study, called IMPACT, is exploring if an online training program for parents can boost language development in young deaf children who have cochlear implants. The program, "It Takes Two to Talk" (ITTT), teaches parents ways to encourage their child's communication. Families joining the study are put into one of two groups: either they receive the usual care, or they receive usual care plus the ITTT program. Researchers want to see if adding ITTT makes a difference to how children with cochlear implants learn to communicate and develop. Children under 5 who meet certain criteria for cochlear implants can take part with their parents.
At a glance
What is this study about?
The IMPACT study is investigating how best to help young deaf children, who have received a special hearing device called a cochlear implant, develop their language. We know that language development is really important, and this study aims to see if a specific online program for parents can make a positive difference.
The program is called "It Takes Two to Talk" (ITTT), and it’s designed to teach parents communication strategies they can use with their child every day. These strategies help parents encourage their child's speech and language in natural, playful ways. The study will compare children whose parents go through this online training with children who receive the standard care already available.
By comparing these groups, researchers hope to understand if offering the ITTT program to parents, alongside standard care, leads to better communication and overall developmental outcomes for young children with cochlear implants. This information could help shape future support and therapy programs, ultimately benefiting many other families.
Key takeaways
- A study for deaf children under 5 with cochlear implants.
- Investigates an online parent training program called ITTT.
- Compares ITTT plus usual care to usual care alone for language development.
- Involves clinic visits, home questionnaires, and online sessions (for ITTT group).
- Participation lasts about 12 months.
- Aims to improve future support for children with cochlear implants.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for young children under the age of 5 who have cochlear implants and meet the healthcare criteria set by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) in the UK. Both the child's parents need to speak, read, and understand English as their main language at home.
Children should not have other known health conditions, like a brain injury or certain genetic syndromes (such as Down syndrome), that might affect how well a cochlear implant works. This helps make sure we're looking specifically at the effects of the program on children using cochlear implants.
Finally, children must have received bilateral cochlear implants (meaning implants in both ears) that were fully put in place. This ensures all children involved in the study have received the standard, recommended level of implantation for optimal hearing support.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Is your child under 5 years old and has cochlear implants?
- Does your child meet the UK healthcare criteria for cochlear implants?
- Do you and your child primarily speak English at home?
- Does your child have cochlear implants in both ears, fully in place?
- Does your child have any other known developmental conditions (like brain injury)? (These might prevent participation.)
What does participation involve?
If you and your child join the study, you'll be randomly placed into one of two groups by a computer. This is like flipping a coin to make sure the groups are fair. One group will receive the usual care for children with cochlear implants. The other group will receive the usual care PLUS your child's parent(s) or guardian(s) will take part in the "It Takes Two to Talk" (ITTT) online program.
The study lasts for about 12 months after your child receives their cochlear implant. During this time, you'll need to attend three visits at your child's cochlear implant centre. Each visit will involve language assessments for your child and will last no more than two hours. You'll also be asked to complete three questionnaires at home, twice during the study.
If you're in the ITTT group, you'll also attend additional online sessions. The ITTT program includes one introductory session, eight group sessions with other parents, and three one-on-one coaching sessions with a speech and language therapist, where you might use video feedback. These online sessions typically last 1 to 2 hours each. As a thank you for your time, families will receive £45 in vouchers.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- -UnverifiedUnited Kingdom
Common questions
What is the main goal of this study?
The study aims to see if an online parent training program can help young deaf children with cochlear implants develop their language skills better.
Who can take part in this study?
Children under 5 with cochlear implants, and whose parents speak English as their main language, may be eligible. There are also specific health criteria for the child.
What is "It Takes Two to Talk" (ITTT)?
ITTT is an online program that teaches parents communication strategies to encourage language development in their child.
How long does the study last?
Participation in the study lasts for about 12 months after your child receives their cochlear implant.
Will I get paid for participating?
Families will receive £45 in vouchers as a thank you for their time spent on assessments and questionnaires.
How to find out more
Louise Nicholson-Scott
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
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