NIH-funded research R01 grant

Understanding reading in deaf and hard-of-hearing kids using listening devices

Official title: MODELING ADOLESCENT READING IN CHILDREN WHO USE COCHLEAR IMPLANTS OR HEARING AIDS

Funded at Father Flanagan's Boys' Home · NIH-11449129 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This grant studies how early language and reading skills relate to literacy in deaf and hard-of-hearing children who use cochlear implants or hearing aids.

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Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionFather Flanagan's Boys' Home
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boys Town, United States)
Project startAugust 1, 2026
Project endJune 30, 2031
Funding year2026
Award (this year)$656,908
NIH project number1R01DC022886-01A1
Project IDNIH-11449129 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Children who are deaf or hard of hearing and use cochlear implants or hearing aids, in the early school years.

Less likely to help

Children who do not have hearing loss or do not use amplification may not directly benefit.

What this research studies

The project follows DHH children who rely on amplification to learn spoken language and aims to map how early language, sound processing, and print knowledge connect to reading success. It uses translational approaches to identify which children are most at risk for language and literacy difficulties as they move into middle school. The findings could lead to better early indicators and targeted supports for reading development in this population.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, it could help educators and clinicians tailor early interventions to improve literacy outcomes for DHH children.

How similar studies have gone: Previous work shows variability in literacy outcomes among DHH children despite amplification.

Where this research is happening

  • Father Flanagan's Boys' Home
    Boys Town, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Werfel, Krystal L. — Father Flanagan's Boys' Home
  • Study coordinator: Werfel, Krystal L.

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.