[Source:  Neuroscience News]

Scientists in the lab of Winrich Freiwald have shed new light on the underpinnings of human speech by identifying neural circuitry in the brains of monkeys that could represent a common evolutionary origin for social communication. As reported in the journal Neuron, these circuits are involved in face recognition, facial expression, and emotion. And they may very well have given rise to our singular capacity for speech.

[Source: Medical X-Press]

But does digital eyestrain cause lasting damage? Should your child use reading glasses or computer glasses? As you send your kids back to school this month for more time with 

[Source: Washington Post]

Starbucks has more than 8,000 stores nationwide. One of them will soon be run entirely in American Sign Language.

Starbucks's first signing store in the United States will hire 20 to 25 deaf, hard-of-hearing and hearing people with the requirement that they be proficient in American Sign Language. Roughly 200 current employees identify as deaf or hard of hearing, according 

A pair of researchers at the University of Colorado has found that preschool kids ate more vegetables when presented with segmented plates with pictures of fruits and vegetables on them. In their paper published in JAMA Pediatrics, Emily Melnick and Meng Li describe their study, which involved observing preschool children having lunch and changing the type of plates that were involved.

[Source: The Journal of Early Intervention via Your Therapy Source]

Researchers have determined that there is a higher prevalence of feeding problems in children with autism over three years of age.  The research has consistently found that more than 50% of children with ASD exhibit limited food acceptance.  This can increase stress levels for families, in addition, to put children at risk for decreased intake of important minerals and vitamins.

With Back to School hurtling our way it is time to share this adorable little and  easy Origami Pencil craft for kids. As you know, we love origami for kids, as it is fun and so very versatile, but also because it carries HUGE Educational Benefits.  We have introduced to kids at a very young age (we have some great Origami for Preschoolers here).  We particularly love this simple origami pencil, as it is quick and easy. There are a number of pencil patterns out there. This is the easiest by far - so easy in fact 

[Source: Crazy Speech World]

The school supply aisles are stocked and I've already received my welcome back letter from my administrator... that can only mean one thing:  Back to School is here!  I always feel bittersweet at the end of the summer, because on one hand, I love my lazy summer days.  BUT, I'm also looking forward to getting back into the groove with the best job ever.