A 2021 study from Northwestern University revealed an important connection between American Sign Language (ASL) and cognitive processes. Hearing infants who had never been exposed to ASL, and who observed ASL during the study, were more successful in the cognitive task than their peers who observed just gestures and pointing. This study underlines the importance of language, whether spoken or signed, for a child’s early cognitive development. Read more about the findings and their significance here.
The ICC-Recommended Early Start Personnel Manual (ESPM) describes core knowledge and role-specific competencies needed for early intervention service provision, incorporating current research and evidence in the field of early intervention. To access the ESPM, click here.
This resource is related to the following ESPM knowledge-level competencies:
- Core Knowledge (CK):
- CK6: The sequences of development and the interrelationships among developmental areas/factors