Empowering Deaf and Hard of Hearing Children: The Impact of Control Phrases on Child Development

In helping children with hearing loss develop listening and spoken language, control phrases such as "I want," "more," and "open" play a crucial role. These phrases are foundational building blocks in language acquisition, empowering children to express their needs, desires, and curiosities effectively. By mastering these control phrases, children can better engage with their environment, fostering a sense of independence and confidence.

Understanding Control Phrases: What They Are and Why They Matter

Control phrases are simple words or basic sentences that often make up the early language for children with hearing loss. These phrases can be used in various scenarios, thus giving them extra importance as children develop their communication skills.

"I want" allows children to articulate their desires clearly, which is a fundamental step in developing expressive language skills. Meanwhile, "more" and "open" enable them to interact with the world around them, encouraging exploration and learning. Additionally, these phrases help establish a two-way communication channel, crucial for social interactions and relationships.

For children with hearing loss, early exposure and practice with these phrases, often supplemented by visual cues, can significantly enhance their ability to participate in conversations and express themselves. This builds a strong foundation for further language development. By mastering these phrases, children gain confidence in their ability to interact with the world around them, which aids in social and cognitive development. 

How CCHAT Implements Control Phrases in Learning 

Control phrases are a common part of nearly every lesson at CCHAT. For younger students, the aforementioned control phrases can be applied to snack, art, playtime, and language circles, and children are enthusiastically rewarded for their efforts. As time passes and children develop additional language, these control phrases give way to more detailed sentences or questions. “I want” becomes “Can I have crackers?” “More” becomes “I need more paper.” “Open” becomes “Will you open my backpack?” CCHAT staff members craft individualized lessons and meet each child where they are in their development. 

Strengthening the Development of Children with Hearing Loss

As family members and educators, focusing on these control phrases can make a significant difference in the communication abilities of children with hearing loss, ultimately contributing to their overall development. These phrases help children participate actively in their learning environments, fostering inclusion and promoting independence. This foundational step is crucial for their overall growth and integration into everyday activities, ultimately enhancing their quality of life.