Can a tablet app help deaf kids talk better?

NCT ID NCT02998164

Ongoing Symptom relief Sponsor: Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tests whether using special communication technology (AAC) alongside speech therapy helps children who are deaf or hard of hearing develop language faster. Half of the 154 children will use AAC tools, while the other half continue their usual therapy. Researchers will measure changes in vocabulary, sentence length, and social skills over 24 weeks.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) technology
What this could lead to: If it works, this could show that AAC tools help children who are deaf or hard of hearing improve their language and social skills.
What could go wrong: This is a behavioral intervention study, not a drug or device trial. Results may vary by child, and the benefit may be small or not apply to all.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

hearing loss disorder Social Behavior

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

HEARING LOSS LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT SOCIAL BEHAVIOR

Contacts and locations

Locations

Children's Hospital of Colorado

Aurora, Colorado, 80045, United States
Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center

Cincinnati, Ohio, 45229, United States

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