Listen Foundation, Inc.

Background Statement

The Importance of Listening and Spoken Language Therapy

Hearing plays a critical role in the development of spoken language, speech, literacy, and cognitive skills. With advances in hearing aid technology, cochlear implants, early identification, and timely intervention, children who are deaf or hard of hearing, including those with profound hearing loss, can develop listening skills and access spoken language during the critical early years of brain development.

Without effective access to communication, children with hearing loss may face challenges in social relationships, education, and, later, the workplace. The ability to communicate, learn, and participate fully in the world around them is essential to a child's independence and long-term success.

Since 1969, the Listen Foundation, an award-winning Colorado nonprofit, has been dedicated to helping children who are deaf or hard of hearing develop listening and spoken language skills through Listening and Spoken Language (LSL) therapy. Our mission is to ensure that every child with hearing loss has the opportunity to develop the communication skills needed to reach their full potential, participate confidently in their communities, and pursue educational opportunities alongside their peers.

The Listen Foundation's Approach

Listening and Spoken Language therapy, combined with appropriate hearing technology such as hearing aids or cochlear implants, helps children learn to access, interpret, and understand spoken language through listening. The approach builds on each child's individual abilities and goals, helping children develop the listening, speech, and language skills they need to communicate effectively.

A defining feature of LSL therapy is the active involvement of parents and caregivers. Families participate in therapy sessions and learn strategies to support their child's listening and spoken language development throughout everyday activities. This family-centered approach empowers parents to become their child's primary facilitators of learning and communication.

With early, consistent intervention and family support, children can build the skills and confidence to participate in educational settings, develop meaningful relationships, and pursue the opportunities that matter to them. The Listen Foundation believes every child deserves the opportunity to communicate, learn, and thrive in ways that support their individual potential and future.

The Listen Foundation is the only organization in Colorado dedicated exclusively to providing Listening and Spoken Language therapy to children who are deaf or hard of hearing and their families. In addition to providing specialized therapy and financial assistance to families who need it, Listen offers parent education, family support, and community outreach to help families navigate hearing loss and understand the opportunities available to their children.

At the heart of the Listen Foundation's mission is a simple belief: every child deserves the opportunity to listen, communicate, learn, and reach their fullest potential. Regardless of their family's financial circumstances.