[Observation of language, visual and hearing function development in infants].

OBJECTIVE To investigate language, visual and hearing function development among infants in a day-care center based on educators' assessments. METHODS One hundred and fifteen infants who attended a day-care center at one university of the São Paulo State, Brazil, were assessed during the period between 1998 and 2001. The "Protocol for Observation of Language, Visual and Hearing Function Development," containing a total of 39 standardized tests, was utilized to assess infants from three to twelve months old. The protocol was applied by trained educators, members of the day-care center staff. Statistical analysis was carried out using Chi-square test or Fischer's exact test at p <0.05. RESULTS Infants showed different language development patterns as for polysyllabic babbling and production of first words. For visual function, infants showed a different pattern of imitation and initiation in gesture games and following commands with gestures. CONCLUSIONS The day-care center setting is probably promoting a distinct pattern of language, visual and hearing function development. Prevention in day-care centers should aim at integrating education and health to achieve the common purpose of child welfare.