Rozwój psychoruchowy u dzieci w młodszym wieku szkolnym z centralnymi zaburzeniami przetwarzania słuchowego i rozwoju mowy na tle rówieśników rozwijających się typowo

Abstract

Background: Central auditory processing disorders (C)APD are difficulties in processing auditory information in the central nervous system, often coexisting with other conditions, like abnormal speech and language development. Children with (C)APD often show delayed or anomalous psychomotor development. Aim: This study aimed to assess the psychomotor development of 6;6–9;11 years old children with central auditory processing disorders and coexisting disorders of speech and language development, divided into two age groups. Material and methods: 75 children (57 boys and 18 girls) participated in the study. They were divided into two age groups: 6;6–7;11 years (younger children) and 8;0–9;11 years (older children). Children began Auditory Perception Stimulation therapy (SPS-articulation) in the World Hearing Center in Kajetany. Psychomotor development was assessed using the Psychomotor Development Assessment Cards [Karty Oceny Rozwoju Psychoruchowego KORP], which identify developmental abnormalities in multiple spheres of a child’s functioning. Results: Motor development scores in 58% of younger children and 66% of older children with (C)APD were low. In fine motor skills and lateralization, 42% of younger and 92% of older children had lower scores than typically developing children. In visual perception and visual-motor coordination, correct or high scores were obtained 72% of younger children and 51% of older children. Low scores in communication and speech were noted in 53% of younger children and 82% of older children beginning therapy. In socio-emotional development, 17% of the younger children had low scores; in the older children, the share of low scores rose to 57%. Scores for behavioral functions’ development showed that 45% of younger children and 77% of older children had low self-care skills and situational awareness levels. Deficits in knowledge and learning ability had 36% of younger children and 64% of older children. We observed statistically significant differences between the younger and older children with (C)APD in all four studied areas: fine motor skills, communication and speech, socio-emotional and behavioral functions. Conclusions: Children with (C)APD manifest difficulties in many spheres of psychomotor functioning. Their development should be monitored regularly to ensure they receive optimal multi-specialist support.