This
mixed-methods study investigated a two-year community-based research program,
Strong Beginnings for Babies (SBB), designed to support families in using 10
strategies for fostering infant language development. More specifically, the
study focused on families of children slated to enter high-poverty schools at
kindergarten entry or receiving Medicaid. The research employed Language
Environment Analysis (LENA) digital language processors to record the
vocalizations/verbalizations of 22 young children as well as those of the
older children and adults who interacted with them. Three coaches were hired
to work closely with participating families during a series of group
sessions, model language promotion strategies, and review LENA reports with
families. Analyses of 249 LENA recordings indicated increases in some
measures of infants’ home language environments across the program period,
particularly in Year One and for families whose initial LENA scores were low.
However, there was great variability in the recordings data. The analysis of
qualitative data sources, such as parent surveys and interviews with coaches,
provided insights into the emotions elicited by LENA data, recording
challenges, and additional supports that encouraged family progress.
