More recent research of note. These findings suggest that the earlier a child receives cochlear implants – and by extension, the shorter the length of time they are not exposed to any auditory input – the better their overall speech and language development over the following months and years. Key quote: > When a deaf child receives a cochlear implant – and how many implants he gets – have a significant impact on hearing and language outcomes, according to the results of two recent studies. (Via [@ShepherdCentre](http://twitter.com/#!/ShepherdCentre/status/154779100521840640/). Hat tip to [@sstibal](http://twitter.com/sstibal) and [@KidsAudiologist](http://twitter.com/#!/KidsAudiologist).) ****** On the subject of getting auditory input to the brain as early and often as possible, my inexpert understanding is that Dr. Carol Flexer is a pioneer in this area of research. A transcript of a seminar that Dr. Flexer presented back in March of 2011 is available on the [Audiology Online site](http://www.audiologyonline.com/articles/article_detail.asp?article_id=2379) and is well worth a read. I love this quote: > We hear with the brain; the ears are just a way in. (Many thanks to the [Life is Bliss blog](http://ardinger.typepad.com/bliss/2012/01/the-auditory-brain-carol-flexer-speech-transcript-so-good.html) for the link.) Maggie and I had the good fortune to attend a presentation locally that Dr. Flexer gave in 2010, back when Irene was still using hearing aids. It was incredibly informative – loaded with good information, stories, and some practical tips. If you ever have the chance to see her speak, don't miss it.