Listen Up! Hearing screenings and speech therapy are transforming lives and empowering young voices at El Molino School.

Healthcare is one of the three pillars of IEP’s holistic approach to bringing children, families and communities out of poverty. Our clinical and surgical volunteer teams impact the lives of thousands of people in rural Guatemala each year. But we have learned that regular testing, screenings and therapies are just as important to the overall healthcare of the people we serve. That is why IEP is partnering with local and US based practitioners to provide regular hearing screenings and speech therapy services to the children of El Molino School.

Studies have shown that even mild hearing loss can have a profound impact on a child’s ability to listen and learn. Identifying hearing problems early allows for interventions to ensure that school performance, speech, and social skills are not affected.

In February close to 300 students underwent a Hearing Screening that included:

• examination of the external auditory canal

• ear flushes when needed (25% of the children needed these!)

• screening to determine hearing acuity using otoacoustic emissions and tympanometry when

  needed
  Of the 300 screenings done, the following needs were identified:

• 5 children need traditional hearing aids

• 1 student needs adjustments to a current hearing aid

• 1 child needs a CROS hearing aid for single sided deafness

• 3 very young children need further advanced diagnosis in an auditory clinic

  IEP extends a special thanks to Guatemalan audiologist, Eva Lopez, for her donation of all hearing aids for these children.

  The children who have been identified with hearing issues will also benefit from IEP’s well established Speech Therapy Program. Since 2021, IEP has collaborated with US based speech pathologists affiliated with AMN Healthcare and a local, Guatemalan speech therapist to help El Molino students with speech and language issues.

  Language and communication are a fundamental part not only of learning but of successful living! This year, the number of El Molino students receiving speech therapy doubled. Identified students attend therapy sessions weekly. The therapists, one in-person and one using Zoom, creatively use conversation, toys, books and games to nurture language development and communication skills.

  The enormous impact of this program is seen in improved confidence and self-esteem, and the acquisition of bonus skills like active listening and problem-solving.

  We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the professionals and volunteers who make the Hearing and Speech Therapy Programs possible. They are truly transforming the lives of these young children.