12/15/2025
Wise Words Worth Repeating 💡
Tina Lou recently shared advice that is just as powerful today as it was 10 years ago—after spending a full day learning from Dr. Carol Flexer, a leader in language and literacy through hearing technology. These reminders matter deeply for families navigating hearing loss:
👂 Hearing is brain access. The ear is the doorway to the brain. Hearing loss is neurological—not just auditory.
🧠 The early years matter most. Nearly 90% of brain growth happens in the first three years of life.
⏰ Wear time matters. Many children birth–5 wear hearing technology only about 4 hours a day. At that rate, it can take six years to gain what a typically hearing child gains in one.
🚀 The later we start, the faster we must go. Parent involvement becomes even more critical.
🔌 This is not a “hearing aid trial.” It is neural stimulation. Every single day counts.
🎧 Thresholds matter. At 70 dB HL or poorer, research supports the value of cochlear implantation. Delays have real brain impact.
📚 Read every day. For babies—multiple books daily. For older children—read aloud and have them read aloud. Aim for at least 20 minutes each way.
🧩 Hearing is never the least concern. When children face multiple challenges, access to sound is foundational. Start with the brain if you can.
🌍 Environment matters. Consider where your child spends time, background noise, and whether technology use is supported and encouraged.
✨ A powerful reminder that access, consistency, and early action are not optional—they are how we protect the developing brain.
Thank you, Tina, for sharing wisdom that continues to guide families. 💙
ParentEducation HearingTechnology ListenLearnThrive
