LENA Grow is a practice-based professional development program that helps teachers improve their classroom language environment through “talk pedometer” technology to track interactions between each child and the teacher. Classrooms will participate in a “LENA day,” where children wear vests with their assigned talk pedometers. These devices count the number of serve and returns the child has with the teacher. The data collected is then processed and used to provide personalized coaching and feedback to the participant. This coaching model is data-driven and leads to increased interactions that impact language development and kindergarten readiness.
LENA Grow started with just one program partner in 2016. As of 2023, the program has served more than 42,000 children and 11,000 educators.
How LENA Grow Works
In just five weeks of LENA Grow, educators renew the energy, dedication, and pride with which they approach the profession, appreciating more than ever just how critical a role they play in children’s lives.
The coaching and feedback loop leads to an increase in interaction and a heightened sense of connectedness with the children. In turn, the children gain all the short- and long-term benefits associated with increased conversational turns. That’s according to a rapidly growing body of peer-reviewed research and independent evaluations.
LENA Grow Effectiveness
Preliminary analysis conducted by LENA’s research team shows that children participating in LENA Grow during the COVID-19 pandemic gained nearly 1.5 months’ worth of language skills in just one month’s time, achieving developmental milestones at an accelerated rate compared to a sample of children who did not participate in the program.
The Educator’s Perspective
95% of teachers say they either like or love the program — and most love it. 99% would recommend LENA Grow to other teachers. In addition, over 90% say the program helped them feel more confident in their teaching abilities and increased their overall job satisfaction.
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