Stimulating the Development of Auditory Functions as a Key Area of Speech Therapy Prevention in Nurseries

DOI: https://doi.org/10.35765/eetp.2026.2181.01
Keywords: auditory functions, speech development, nursery, speech therapy prevention, auditory-verbal education, nursery carer

Abstract

This article aims to reflect on the development of auditory functions and the currently recognised need for their deliberate stimulation in hearing children up to the age of three. The development of auditory functions is most rapid between birth and age 3 and is closely linked to language acquisition. Consequently, the study focuses on basic speech and language therapy prevention through auditory-verbal education provided in childcare settings. The article presents a preliminary assessment of nursery care in this area and identifies activities aimed at developing auditory skills within the framework of nursery education. A diagnostic survey method was used in the pilot study. Data were collected using a questionnaire administered to carers employed in 12 state-run nurseries in the Podkarpackie Province (Poland). The survey was designed to identify initial needs related to group preventive activities in nursery settings. The findings indicate a need to update both knowledge and practice regarding the use of auditory-verbal education in the daily routine of working with nursery-age children. This includes activities such as conversation, reading aloud, and music-making. The final section offers practical recommendations and identifies key areas where support for children’s auditory and verbal development is advisable, including preventive measures to be implemented in childcare settings.

Author Biography

Katarzyna Ita Bieńkowska, The Maria Grzegorzewska University, Poland

Katarzyna Ita Bieńkowska PhD - university professor at the Department of Speech-Language Pathology & Educational Linguistics, The Maria Grzegorzewska University (APS) in Warsaw. Doctor of medical sciences, specialist in speech and language therapy hearing impairment person. For 23 years she has been cooperated with the Association of Parents and Friends of Children with Hearing Impairment and Diagnosis, Treatment and Rehabilitation Centre of Hearing, Voice and Speech Disorders in Krosno. She deals practically and scientifically with solving problems related to children’s difficulties in acquiring speech and the functioning of school DHH students. A separate area of interest is the difficulties of elderly people with hearing impairment. She is the author of approx. 80 scientific articles, books and methodological textbooks on therapy for children and adults with speech disorders.

 

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Published
2026-06-30
How to Cite
Bieńkowska, K. I. (2026). Stimulating the Development of Auditory Functions as a Key Area of Speech Therapy Prevention in Nurseries. Elementary Education in Theory and Practice, 21(2(81), 17-31. https://doi.org/10.35765/eetp.2026.2181.01
Issue
Vol. 21 No. 2(81) (2026): Speech Therapy Prevention in Theory and Practice
Section
Artykuły tematyczne

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