Predicting 9-Year Language Ability from Preschool Speech Recognition in Noise in Children Using Cochlear Implants.

The study reported correlational associations rather than causal effects. Cross-lagged analysis used only two time points, so it provides a weak test of direction. The sample was 56 children using cochlear implants who spoke English at home, had nonverbal IQ above 75, and received implants before 4 years, so results may not apply to children using hearing aids, children using other communication modes, or children with lower nonverbal IQ. Speech perception at 5 years was measured with either word or sentence tests, although test type did not significantly affect the models. The findings apply to the change from preschool to school age, not to other developmental periods.

The authors declared no potential conflicts of interest. The work was partly funded by the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders of the National Institutes of Health under grant R01DC008080.

Do not conclude that better speech perception in noise will cause better language, or that speech perception training will improve language. The paper reports correlational longitudinal associations, and cross-lagged analysis with two time points cannot establish causality.