About

Welcome to the world of Smarty Ears, a hub of innovation bridging technology with special education. What began as a pioneering venture in speech and language therapy has evolved into a comprehensive solutions supporting speech, language, literacy, and communication needs. Our mission since 2009 has been to enrich the lives of children and individuals with learning and communication difficulties. Through cutting-edge solutions we're embracing the future of education and therapy. Explore our story, solutions, and the transformative impact we've made in countless lives across the globe.

Empowering YOU to Make Sure that Children with with Speech, Language and Literacy Needs have their Best Chance at Learning.

Unlocking Potential Through Creative Technology

The Company

Dive into our story, our core values, and meet the passionate team behind our innovative solutions. Together, we're transforming the field of special education, enriching lives through technology.

Achievements and Recognitions

Our achievements underscore our commitment to excellence and motivate us to continue pushing the boundaries of what's possible in the EdTech space.

The Company

Empowering educators, clinicians and caregivers with cutting-edge technology, fueled by an expansive and meticulously curated learning library that fosters children's learning and growth.

The Background

At Smarty Ears, we recognize that technology has the potential to transform the way parents, special education departments, and clinicians enhance communication, literacy and comprehension skills for children with speech and language needs. We’ve have been introducing  groundbreaking approaches that reimagines how children engage in practicing their skills from the start in 2009. 

In a world where technology is ever-present, the expectation for children to remain engaged with worksheets and paper flashcards is outdated. By definition, static materials often fail to meet children’s needs where they are to take where they want to be. Our technology has shifted this gap drastically over the last 14 years.

What started as a speech-language pathologist’s vision to create the first app for speech therapy, evolved into a massive set of technology solutions for making sure children with communication and learning differences have their best chance at learning.

  • Our Story

    Did you know Smarty Ears was started by an SLP? If you are curious about that journey, Smarty Ears back story and our growth. We got it all for ready for you!

  • Meet the Team

    If you want to get to know the "Smarty" brains behind our technology. Just click here to learn more.

  • Research & Development

    Did you know that Smarty Ears was awarded an innovation research grant by the National Institute of Health? Discover this, and other amazing development facts.

Our Leadership

Meet the founder & CEO Barbara Fernandes​

In the intersection of innovation, grit, and education, you'll find Barbara Fernandes. Barbara Fernandes is not just an entrepreneur; she's a visionary dedicated to transforming the world of speech, language, and communication. As the founder and CEO of Smarty Ears, Barbara's portfolio includes nearly seventy successful product launches, a revolutionary communication symbol set, and an NIH SBIR Award. Her first-ever iPhone app for speech therapy marked the beginning of an incredible journey that has made Smarty Ears one of the most cherished companies in the communication sciences and disorders space.

Solutions

At Smarty Ears, we understand the unique challenges faced by special education professionals, parents, and institutions. Our solutions are designed with the specific goal of aiding children with speech impairment and learning disabilities. 

Smarty Ears Online

Smarty Ears Online is a groundbreaking digital platform designed to support children with speech impairment and learning disabilities. By leveraging innovative technology, it provides special education professionals, parents, and educational institutions with access to individually adaptive learning activities and therapeutic solutions.

Focused on creating a more accessible and effective approach to speech and language therapy, Smarty Ears Online offers a range of applications and tools tailored to meet the unique needs of each child. With the ability to track and analyze progress data, it enhances the collaboration between therapists, educators, and families, ensuring a cohesive and targeted approach to supporting children’s development.

Through Smarty Ears Online, users can access a suite of resources, including interactive games, assessment tools, and reporting features, all developed with expert insights.

Apps for Mobile Devices

Pioneering Speech Therapy Across the Globe

Since 2009, Smarty Ears has been at the forefront of digital innovation in the field of speech therapy. Creating applications that address a variety of communication needs, including articulation, language skills, social communication, AAC, and phonological awareness, the company’s dedication to excellence has resonated with users in 127 countries.

With a track record of consistent innovation, global impact, and dedication to excellence, Smarty Ears stands as a beacon in the field of speech therapy. The journey that began with a single app in 2009 has blossomed into a suite of tools that are shaping the future of speech therapy across the world.

who are smarty ears

A decade of Impact

1

2009: Where it all began

Our founder, Barbara had an idea: To create an app to support speech sound practice. Smarty Ears was founded and the 1st Speech Therapy App on the App Store was released.

2

2016: Over 50 iPad apps Launched

We got busy! We partnered with over 26 other educators and speech therapists to create an impressive collection of apps.

3

2019: NIH SBIR Award Recipient

In 2019, Smarty Ears was awarded federal funding from the National Institute of Health (NIH) to develop and research a solution for children struggling to understand speech in background noise.

4

2021: Smarty Ears Online

Smarty Ears launches its most ambitious project: Smarty Ears Online, combining a decade of development and technology in one comprehensive solution for special education.

We Empower Speech, Language, Literacy and Learning through Technology

Leadership & Customer Loyalty

When you create products that educators and clinicians trust, you can continue to push forward and deliver even more innovative products. When you have a mission to support not only students but professionals with the product beyond their wildest dreams, they will keep coming back. We are a mission drive business. Our mission is to continue to challenge the status quo of an industry that was sorely lacking innovation while providing special education software solutions. We will continue to support our clinicians the Smarty Ears way with every new technology.

Recognitions

best mobile app Edublog Awards
Teachers with Apps
Readers choice winner
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Frequently Asked Questions

You got questions, we have answers for you!

What is Smarty Ears Online?

Smarty Ears Online is a groundbreaking digital platform designed to support children with speech impairment and learning disabilities. By leveraging innovative technology, it provides special education professionals, parents, and educational institutions with access to individually adaptive learning activities and therapeutic solutions.

Focused on creating a more accessible and effective approach to speech and language therapy, Smarty Ears Online offers a range of applications and tools tailored to meet the unique needs of each child. With the ability to track and analyze progress data, it enhances the collaboration between therapists, educators, and families, ensuring a cohesive and targeted approach to supporting children’s development.

Designed with both school and home use in mind, Smarty Ears Online aims to bridge the gap in special education services, providing continuous, data-driven support that aligns with each child’s learning objectives and Individualized Education Plan (IEP).

Through Smarty Ears Online, users can access a suite of resources, including interactive games, assessment tools, and reporting features, all developed with expert insight from the field of Speech-Language Pathology. By streamlining the therapy process and engaging children in a fun and motivating way, Smarty Ears Online represents a transformative solution in the field of special education technology.

You can try Smarty Ears Online here.

Are Smarty Ears' tools compatible with various devices and platforms? What are the system requirements?

Smarty Ears’ tools are designed with versatility in mind, ensuring accessibility across various devices and platforms. They are compatible with iOS devices, including iPads, iPhones, and iPod Touch, as well as Android tablets and smartphones. Additionally, Smarty Ears Online is accessible through web browsers, making it available on Windows and Mac computers.

System Requirements:

  1. iOS Devices: Requires iOS 12.0 or later.
  2. Android Devices: Requires Android 6.0 (Marshmallow) or later.
  3. Web Browsers: Supports the latest versions of Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge. A stable internet connection is recommended for optimal performance.
  4. Screen Size: Optimized for a wide range of screen sizes, from smartphones to tablets and desktop monitors.

These system requirements ensure a smooth and efficient user experience, enabling therapists, educators, and families to utilize Smarty Ears’ tools across various settings, whether in the classroom, therapy room, or at home. It is recommended to keep devices and browsers up to date to enjoy the latest features and enhancements.

What makes Smarty Ears' tools and applications unique in supporting children with speech impairment and learning disabilities?

Smarty Ears’ tools and applications stand out in the field of supporting children with speech impairment and learning disabilities for several unique reasons:

  1. Specialized Design: Each tool and application is thoughtfully designed by speech-language professionals who understand the specific needs and challenges faced by children with speech and learning disabilities. This ensures that the content is not only engaging but also therapeutically sound.

  2. Customization: Smarty Ears’ tools allow for individualized settings, enabling therapists, educators, and parents to tailor activities and support according to each child’s unique requirements. This ensures personalized intervention and maximizes learning potential.

  3. Innovation: Leveraging cutting-edge technology, Smarty Ears continually updates and expands its offerings to include the latest advancements in digital therapeutic and educational technology. Their products often lead the way in incorporating new methods and ideas.

  4. Data Tracking and Analysis: The applications offer automated data tracking, analysis, and reporting features. This technology saves valuable time for professionals and provides insights into the child’s progress, strengths, and areas needing further support.

  5. Family Involvement: Smarty Ears recognizes the importance of family in the therapeutic process. Their applications are designed to be user-friendly, allowing parents to be actively involved in their child’s learning journey. This promotes continuity between therapy sessions and home practice.

  6. Integration with School Systems: Smarty Ears has developed solutions that can be seamlessly integrated into special education departments, enhancing the support that schools can offer to students with learning disabilities.

  7. Affordability and Accessibility: With a focus on reducing barriers to quality therapeutic tools, Smarty Ears offers cost-effective solutions that do not compromise on quality. This broadens the reach of these critical resources to more children and families in need.

  8. Diverse Offerings: The extensive library of applications covers a wide spectrum of speech and language goals, ranging from articulation and language development to social skills and literacy. This makes it a one-stop destination for diverse therapeutic needs.

  9. Commitment to Inclusivity: Smarty Ears demonstrates a strong commitment to inclusivity by ensuring their tools are accessible to a broad range of students with varying abilities, learning styles, and cultural backgrounds.

  10. Global Impact: With a footprint that goes beyond the United States, Smarty Ears’ tools have a global impact, reaching children, professionals, and families across different countries and cultures.

Overall, the combination of specialized design, innovation, customization, and a commitment to inclusive and accessible learning makes Smarty Ears’ tools and applications an unparalleled resource in supporting children with speech impairment and learning disabilities.

What is the difference between Smarty Ears Online and Smarty Ears apps?

Smarty Ears Online

  1. Platform: Web-based platform accessible through internet browsers on computers and tablets.
  2. Accessibility: Can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection, allowing for greater flexibility.
  3. Content: Offers a comprehensive suite of tools and resources, often updated and expanded, available in one centralized location.
  4. Subscription Model: Typically operates on a subscription basis, providing access to various tools and resources as part of a package.
  5. Collaboration Features: May include features that allow collaboration between professionals, parents, and teachers, such as shared progress tracking and customizable goals.
  6. Intended Users: Often designed for speech therapists, special education professionals, and educators who require extensive resources for varied needs.

Smarty Ears Apps

  1. Platform: Individual applications downloadable on mobile devices, tablets, and sometimes computers.
  2. Accessibility: Can be accessed offline once downloaded, providing convenience in various settings.
  3. Content: Each app is specialized for a particular area of speech and language therapy, such as articulation, language comprehension, or social skills.
  4. Purchase Model: Usually sold separately, allowing users to pick and choose specific apps according to their needs.
  5. Individual Use: Designed with both professionals and parents in mind, these apps can be used in therapy sessions, schools, or at home for practice.
  6. Intended Users: Suitable for speech therapists, educators, parents, and caregivers looking for targeted interventions and support for specific areas of development.

In summary, Smarty Ears Online offers a broad and interconnected platform with various tools, making it suitable for comprehensive therapy and education. In contrast, Smarty Ears apps provide specialized, individual tools catering to specific needs and preferences. Both are essential components of the Smarty Ears ecosystem, providing flexible solutions for the diverse needs of children with speech impairment and learning disabilities.

What are the purchase options and pricing plans available for educational institutions?

Smarty Ears Online: Educational Institutions

At Smarty Ears, we understand the unique needs of educational institutions and have tailored our offerings to provide the best support for children with speech impairment and learning disabilities.

Site Licenses: We offer site licenses that allow unlimited access for students while charging on a per-educator basis. Our flexible plans can be customized to fit the specific requirements of each organization, ensuring that every child gets the attention and support they deserve.

Volume Discounts: Recognizing the importance of accessible tools for large organizations, we provide volume discounts for bulk purchases. Our team will work with you to find the best solutions for your institution’s needs.

App Purchases: Available Through Apple’s App Store

Smarty Ears’ innovative apps are available exclusively through Apple’s App Store. As we do not directly sell the apps, purchases, including volume discounts for educational purposes, are handled by Apple. For more information on Apple’s educational volume discounts and how to make bulk purchases for your organization, please visit the App Store.

By providing both online solutions and specialized apps, Smarty Ears is committed to offering comprehensive and accessible tools to support educational professionals, parents, and children in the journey of learning and development.

Please feel free to reach out to our support team for further assistance with choosing the best options for your organization, or explore our website for more detailed information.

How are Smarty Ears' tools integrated into existing special education curricula or Individualized Education Plans (IEPs)?

Smarty Ears’ tools are designed with the flexibility and adaptability to be seamlessly integrated into existing special education curricula and Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). Here’s how:

Alignment with Educational Goals

  • Customized Learning Paths: Smarty Ears’ tools can be tailored to meet the specific learning objectives and goals outlined in a child’s IEP. Educators and therapists can select from a wide range of activities and exercises that align with the child’s developmental milestones and educational targets.
  • Compliance with Standards: Our tools are developed in accordance with widely recognized educational and therapeutic standards, ensuring that they complement and enhance existing special education curricula.

Collaborative Support

  • Multi-disciplinary Collaboration: Smarty Ears facilitates collaboration between special education teachers, speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, and other professionals. This unified approach ensures that the child’s entire support team can access, contribute to, and monitor progress within a centralized platform.
  • Parent Involvement: Our tools provide opportunities for parents and caregivers to actively participate in the child’s learning process. This bridges the gap between home and school, reinforcing learning and promoting consistent support.

Data-Driven Insights

  • Progress Monitoring: Through real-time data and insights, Smarty Ears’ tools allow educators to closely track a child’s progress. These actionable insights assist in making informed decisions, adjusting strategies, and ensuring that the child’s unique needs are met.
  • Reporting Compatibility: Our system can generate reports that can be integrated into a child’s IEP documentation, providing a comprehensive view of the child’s ongoing development and achievements.

Accessibility and Flexibility

  • Device Compatibility: Smarty Ears’ tools can be accessed on various platforms and devices, ensuring that learning can continue beyond the classroom. This flexibility accommodates different learning environments and caters to the individual preferences and needs of each child.

Conclusion

Smarty Ears’ commitment to innovation and excellence in special education ensures that our tools not only align with but actively enhance existing curricula and IEPs. By fostering a holistic, data-driven, and personalized approach, we empower professionals and families to provide the best possible support for children with speech impairment and learning disabilities.