The Joy of Milestones: Supporting Children with Hearing Loss

Parents often celebrate their child’s first spoken words, like “Mama” or “Dada,” but many overlook the complexities involved in reaching this crucial speech milestone—particularly for children with hearing loss. For professionals working in this field, every vocalization can be a significant moment, as they help guide these children toward connecting with their families.

For Tiffany Lim, a 26-year-old auditory-verbal habilitationist at KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital’s Audiology Service in Singapore, her very first case was unforgettable. It involved a four-year-old boy who had spent much of his early life in silence. When he finally called out to his mother and grandparents, it was a heartfelt moment that deeply affected Tiffany. “Up until then, he was in his own bubble,” she reflected.

Tiffany’s role involves equipping children and infants with hearing devices and assisting them in developing their listening and language skills. Her approach is both professional and familial, coaching parents on how to foster their child’s development during therapy sessions and at home.

In Singapore, approximately one in every 1,000 newborns is diagnosed with significant hearing loss, as reported by KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital. To address this, auditory-verbal therapy is recommended to keep track of the child’s use of hearing devices and their progress in spoken language. Each year, the KKH Audiology Service supports between 2,500 to 3,000 patients dealing with hearing loss, working with kids from six months to 18 years of age. Some children are born with hearing challenges, while others may acquire them due to infections or medical issues later in life.

Discovering a Passion for Care

Tiffany Lim’s path to her current profession began with her degree in psychology, concentrating on child development. She always aspired to be in a role that helped others, and during an internship at an early intervention center, she realized her passion for the interactive, hands-on experience of working with children.

As Tiffany continues her impactful work, she plays a crucial role in transforming lives. Each child’s achievement, from their first sounds to their full conversations, not only enriches their own families but also highlights the transformative power of support and dedication in overcoming barriers to communication.