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Winooski, VT January 23, 2007 -- With a recent surge in autism, developmental
delays, and other related disorders, many special educators often face the difficulty of selecting
and implementing the proper individual educational plan (IEP) for those with speech, language, and
learning impairments. The variety and complexity of these disorders create many challenges for
those seeking the proper course of treatment and intervention.
 However, the recent launch
of a new language system is offering solutions to these and other complex issues facing
parents and educators within the special needs community.
Deemed the "next generation" of software for language intervention, LanguageLinks is a
comprehensive, six-level syntax system designed to help children master syntax and become better
communicators. LanguageLinks was developed by Laureate Learning Systems, a special
needs software publisher based outside of Burlington, Vermont.
"LanguageLinks is an important product for children with autism spectrum disorders and other
language-based impairments," said Dr. Mary Sweig Wilson, a practicing speech-language pathologist
and co-founder of the company.
"The ability to understand spoken words and phrases is the foundation for language development.
Communication skills are developed more through listening than speaking. Our product is based on
this concept of receptive language training," she added.
Developed with grants awarded by the National Institute of Deafness and Other Communication
Disorders (NIDCD), LanguageLinks offers a curriculum which takes advantage of advances in computer
technology and an artificial intelligence component inspired by Laureate's association with NASA's
Software Technology Branch at the Johnson Space Center.
The company's new product is a unique addition to an already diverse portfolio of over 50 talking
software programs and has been successfully tested in the field.
A recent study done in Medford, Massachusetts on LanguageLinks: Syntax Assessment &
Intervention system showed that pre-school children in the Syntax Intervention Group outperformed
those in a Control Group that used only vocabulary and concept development software.
Wilson noted, "We're proud that LanguageLinks comes to market as a proven system. Our goal was to
provide the most current and technologically advanced language intervention product available. We
feel this objective has been met."
She concluded, "Ultimately, this program is about improving the lives of children with special
needs. Having an opportunity to contribute to that is a rewarding feeling."
For more details, including information on in-home use, visit www.LaureateLearning.com or call
800-562-6801.
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