Category Archives: Research

Why Sound, Laughter, and Play Are Essential for Learning

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Creative Sound Play recognizes what science and caregivers have long observed: humans communicate, bond, and learn through sound before words, symbols, or formal music. From giggles and coos to call-and-response vocal play, sound is a child’s first language—and one of the most accessible, inclusive educational tools available to educators today.

Dr. Mireault’s research highlights laughter as a mechanism for social bonding and emotional regulation, particularly in moments of surprise, play, and shared attention. Creative Sound Play extends this understanding into classrooms by intentionally using vocal sounds, clapping, stomping, silence, rhythm, and playful listening to strengthen relationships, support self-regulation, and transform everyday moments—especially transition times—into meaningful learning experiences.

Read the article HERE

America’s Spelling Crisis: Why Spellcheck Can’t Save Your Child

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Key Takeaways:

  • Learning to spell builds the linguistic foundation children need for reading, writing, and lifelong communication
  • Technology tools like spellcheck and ChatGPT mask learning difficulties and can delay diagnosis of dyslexia
  • Experts recommend 20 minutes of daily spelling instruction using science-based curricula, not just memorization

See the full post HERE

Make team-based learning work for neurodivergent students

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Team-based learning in science education improves academic outcomes and develops crucial workplace skills. However, it presents challenges for those with autism, ADHD, dyslexia or any other form of neurodiversity. 

Many neurodivergent individuals find group work and processing information quickly difficult, and get distracted easily.

This kind of learning is challenging for them because it requires them to manage their time effectively and work with their classmates to complete activities in often overstimulating environments. Before class, they must review pre-learning materials. They then complete a closed-book quiz on the material – both individually and as a group in class. As a team, they must then work on exercises that apply knowledge to real-world scenarios. 

We spoke to neurodivergent bioscience and pharmacy students to find out what we could do to support them. Here are five tips based on our conversations.

Read it all HERE

AI Handwriting Analysis May Catch Dyslexia and Dysgraphia Early

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Summary: A new AI-driven tool developed by researchers could revolutionize how educators and clinicians screen for dyslexia and dysgraphia in children. By analyzing handwriting samples from K–5 students, the system detects behavioral cues, spelling errors, motor difficulties, and cognitive issues with remarkable precision.

Unlike traditional screening, which is time-intensive and often condition-specific, this method is faster, scalable, and could ease the burden on the nation’s limited speech and occupational therapy workforce. The research underscores the value of using artificial intelligence for early intervention, particularly in underserved communities.

Read the full article HERE