Berard (AIT)

 

What is Auditory Integration Training (AIT)

Berard Auditory Integration Training (AIT) is an auditory intervention technique aiming to alleviate hypersensitivity or distortions in hearing. Developed by Dr. Guy Berard, it involves exposing individuals to modulated music to retrain the auditory system. AIT seeks to address auditory processing issues and sensory challenges, potentially improving listening abilities.

Auditory Integration Training (AIT) is a sound-based program that efficiently retrains a disorganized auditory system, creating balanced and effective listening. (The Berard method of AIT is supported by years of clinical studies and scientific research, with reports published in peer-reviewed journals.)

Berard AIT may enhance skill and abilities in the following areas:

  • Expressive language
  • Receptive language
  • Writing
  • Reading
  • Spelling
  • Attention
  • Concentration
  • Sensory integration
  • Cognitive skills
  • Confidence
  • Dyslexia
  • Other language, developmental and behavioral disorders

Who can benefit from Berard AIT

Check off items below that describe current or previous history for your child. If numerous items are checked, Berard AIT should be considered.

Does not learn well through use of the auditory channel.
Has a history of ear infections. Cannot relate to what is heard to what is seen.
Frequently misunderstands what is said.
Forgets what is said in a few minutes.
Daydreams - attention drifts.
Experiences problems with sound discrimination.
Notices sounds before others do.
Constant humming or audible self-talk.
Does not comprehend many words, not grasping verbal concepts appropriate for age/grade level.
Is considered to have autism, dyslexia, pervasive development disorder, central auditory processing disorder(CAPD), Asperger's Syndrome or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder(ADHD).
Does not pay attention (listen) to instruction 50% or more of the time.
Demonstrates below average performance in one or more academic area(s).
Has difficulty following verbal directions - often necessary to repeat instructions.
Cannot attend to auditory stimuli for more than a few seconds.
Says "Huh?" or "What?" at least 5 times or more per day.
Has a short attention span.
Easily distracted by background noise.
Has a "startle" response to sudden sound or movement.
Gives unusual descriptions of sounds, auditory stimulation or sensation.
Needs frequent "quiet time" to regain mental energy and composure.
Has a language concern (morphology, syntax, vocabulary, phonology).
Has an articulation (phonology) concern.

What is involved with Berard AIT?

110 hours of listening
Participants listen through headphones to modulate music from an AIT device for 20 sessions of 30 minutes each, for a total of 10 hours of listening therapy, completed over 10 (or 12) consecutive days.

Supervised AIT Sessions
AIT sessions are not provided under 1:1 therapy supervision. A parent or caregiver should plan on remaining in the room during each 30 minute listening session. The minimum recommended age for AIT is 3 years of age.