Update and validation of the early word perception test in the Spanish language

Introduction

It is extremely important to assess speech perception skills in children with hearing loss, since these skills are essential to guide the rehabilitation process.

Objective

Update and validate the Early Speech Perception test in Spanish in normal-hearing children.

Method

Different drawings were selected from children's books used daily in the work of teachers and speech therapists. 69 children aged between 3 and 8 years old participated in the study, divided into 6 groups by age (group 1, 3 years of age (n = 13); group 2, 4 years of age (n = 15); group 3, 5 years of age (n = 12); group 4, 6 years of age (n = 8); group 5, 7 years of age (n = 10); group 6, 8 years of age (n = 11)). For each category of the test, the children had to name and point to the corresponding drawing.

Results

The difference between age and gender groups was statistically evaluated. For the naming phase, a significant difference was observed between groups 1 and group 5; and between group 1 and group 6. For the pointing phase there was no difference between the groups, and in all groups, there was a score greater than 98%. In relation to gender, there was no difference between the groups.

Conclusion

The present study demonstrates that the material developed to assess auditory reception in normal-hearing children from 3 to 8 years old is appropriate.