New Link Discovered Between Sensory Aspects of Speech and Language Issues in Autism
Results support that sensory cues aid in language development
After the video tests were complete and the Preschool Language Scales were performed, the researchers crossed the data and looked at who performed better.
The older children performed better on the language assessment. Children who watched the synchronized video more frequently also performed better. The highest scores were found with the children who not only watched the accurate video but also watched the eyes and mouth of the woman who was speaking.
This was found in both neurotypical children and those on the autism spectrum.
The researchers suggest that this means that the ability to pay attention to sensory cues aids in language development.
Elena Tenenbaum, one of the researchers, said, “One possible explanation for that is that attention to the mouth and eyes is facilitating their language learning. But there are obviously alternative possibilities.”
