Show 2: The Infant Brain & Early Language Acquisition

The developing infant brain is an amazing thing, capable of learning more than we have previously understood. On this episode we find out when babies and young children can best learn a second language and how to teach them, and we'll learn what brain research is revealing about early identification of learning disorders such as autism.

IN-STUDIO GUEST: Dr. Patricia Kuhl is internationally renowned for her research on the infant brain and early language acquisition. She spoke with host, Shana Sheehy, all about her fascinating work at the University of Washington's I-LABS (Institute for Learning and Brain Sciences).

FEATURED STORIES:

- Helping families with learning-delayed babies - KTD Contributor Jessica Cochran spoke with Amy Simpson at the Programs for Infants and Children (PIC) in Anchorage to tell us about the services they offer throughout the state, and how PIC is supporting families with learning-delayed children right in their homes.

- Teaching Yup'ik in the Lower Kuskokwim - KTD Producer Sarah Gonzales spoke with Abby Augustine (below, with students), the Yup'ik Language Education Specialist for the Lower Kuskokwim School District. She shared what she knows about getting kids excited to speak a second language - hint, it involves humor and acting... Learn more about Abby Augustine's research on the TPR Storytelling method of teaching language. Plus, Doreen Brown of the Anchorage School District's Title VII Indian Education Program tells us how they are teaching indigenous Alaska languages while also building community.

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