Exciting news! The University of Washington’s Institute for Learning & Brain Sciences (I-LABS) is now home to the most advanced magnetoencephalography (or MEG) brain imaging device in the world. The MEG will allow scientists like Dr. Patricia Kuhl and Dr. Andrew Meltzoff to explore new discoveries in the area of neurological studies of young children. Through the use of the MEG, scientists will be able to safely map the minds of infants and young children as they see, learn, feel, and experience life, all within days of birth. This innovative technology will finally help scientists and researchers understand how and when children learn and eventually help the early learning community better maximize a child’s ability to learn.

The MEG discoveries will also have a profound impact on children with developmental disabilities such as those with autism. Scientists will be able to detect bio-markers in an infants brain while it is still “plastic and admissible to change”, according to Dr. Kuhl, which will allow children to receive even earlier intervention services.

Now, imagine all of the possibilities and hope that this new technology brings. Very exciting!

For more information on the latest  brain research, visit the Institute for Learning & Brain Sciences (I-LABS).