LENA Start
What is this initiative about?
LENA is a national nonprofit on a mission to transform children’s futures through early talk technology and data-driven programs. LENA Start is an evidence-based community program designed to engage families and help them learn how to increase conversation with their children during the first few years of life. Interactive talk — specifically back-and-forth conversation — has been proven to be a key factor in healthy early brain development. Yet most families don’t know how much they’re talking to or with their children.
Why do we support LENA Start?
Early language experiences predict success in kindergarten and beyond. And you don’t need lots of money or fancy educational materials to lay a strong foundation for learning. Your voice and a high quantity and quality of words exchanged with your little one is all you need to get started. Even babies can take part in conversations. Their coos, babbles, and gestures are all critical parts of the dialogue. That’s why we’ve partnered with national nonprofit organization LENA to help Milwaukee families talk more with young children.
How can I join the program?
We’re always looking to grow our LENA family! If you are interested in signing up for our next program, please complete a contact form.