We started with a bold vision – to revolutionize the way we identify and support children at risk for reading challenges. We began this journey by developing the EarlyBird learning assessment that transformed the practice of reading evaluation in schools through a science-backed assessment that is fun for kids and provides comprehensive data. We tested the approach at Boston Children’s Hospital, the #1 pediatric hospital in the country, and it is now the early literacy assessment trusted and used by schools districts and teachers nationwide.
Today at Sprout Labs, we’re bringing that same proven tool directly to families, along with prescriptive tools and instruction tailored to meet their child’s unique needs. Our commitment has always been to combine scientific rigor with engaging, child-friendly methods. Now we’re bringing that expertise directly to families, ensuring that every child can experience the joy and success of reading and that every family has the confidence to support them in their development.
As founders, we know that reading education isn’t just powerful and promising – it’s personal. Some of us have dedicated our careers to studying the science behind reading success, while others of us have experienced first-hand the challenges families face when a child struggles with reading. We know, both intellectually and emotionally, how essential reading skills are for children to grow into confident, happy, and successful adults who love to learn. Sprout Labs was born from this passion.
Co-Founder and CEO
is a business executive, a leader of the Boston Children’s Hospital accelerator that backed the development of EarlyBird, and the parent of a child with dyslexia. She joined Drs. Gaab and Petscher in launching EarlyBird Education, and now Sprout Labs, as part of her personal mission to equip families with the tools and confidence they need to help children discover the joy and rewards of reading.
Co-Founder and Scientific Advisor
Nadine Gaab, was a developmental neuroscientist at Boston Children’s Hospital when she developed the EarlyBird assessment, proven effective at predicting dyslexia and other reading challenges in young children. As both a professional and a mother, she recognized the power of bringing a proactive, preventive approach to educators, and now families, and joined forces with the team to create Sprout Labs.
Co-Founder and Scientific Advisor
Associate Director at the Florida Center for Reading Research, contributed his extensive research, data and expertise in developing and implementing EarlyBird. Understanding the transformative potential of their combined work, he collaborated with Dr. Gaab—not only for reading education, but for improving lives. Together, they combined years of research, data, and knowledge to bring EarlyBird, and now Sprout Labs, to life.
