iiinova — where your digital self keeps evolving

KU Life Span Institute @kulifespan.bsky.social · 01/10/2026

Help us congratulate Life Span Institute affiliated researcher Alice Zhang. She was among those recognized by the Kansas Board of Regents as among the 2026 Faculty of the Year. #KUresearch

Congratulations 2026 Faculty of the Year Alice Zhang, Assistant Professor, Occupational Therapy at the University of Kansas Medical Center

000

KU Life Span Institute @kulifespan.bsky.social · 30/09/2026

What helps #autistic students transition to adulthood? Researchers at @kucdisabilities.bsky.social found that self-determination and peer support can help students build goals, strengthen social connections and prepare for life after HS. loom.ly/qw4fiKw

"Time is a big challenge. But when schools were able to make time and build supports for teachers and students — there were positive impacts that were important for autistic students." Karrie Shogren, Director of the KU Center on Disabilities

000

KU Life Span Institute @kulifespan.bsky.social · 29/09/2026

You're invited to the @kucdisabilities.bsky.social Fall Festival. You can meet researchers/staff and learn about the center's work supporting people with disabilities and their families. The event is free and open to all. loom.ly/bxYAlzU

You're invited! Fall Festival open house at the KU Center on Disabilities. 4-6 p.m. Oct. 8. 1122 W. Campus Road, Lawrence, Kan.

010

KU Life Span Institute @kulifespan.bsky.social · 24/09/2026

Struggling with bedtime battles? You're not alone. Good sleep helps children learn, regulate emotions, and stay healthy. Kansas LEND has advice to help. Healthy sleep is a skill that develops with practice and consistency. View the video for more: loom.ly/Og5nq6o

youtube.com

Kansas LEND Family Education Series - March 2024 - Sleep

Kansas LEND

000

KU Life Span Institute @kulifespan.bsky.social · 22/09/2026

Cofrin Logan Center's Jessica Powers has been recognized as the inaugural recipient of the Judy Janes Professorship in Addiction Research. The honor supports better understand of addiction research while helping train future scientists and clinicians. #AddictionScience #KUresearch

Congratulations. Inaugural Judy Janes Professor in Addiction Research. Jessica Powers. Cofrin Logan Center for Addiction Research and Treatment.

000

KU Life Span Institute @kulifespan.bsky.social · 21/09/2026

📚 Literacy is more than decoding words. KU researchers are developing tools that help educators assess both language comprehension and word recognition so students don't fall through the cracks. #NationalLiteracyMonth #ScienceOfReading Learn more: loom.ly/gok6qs0

A student frowns while looking at her computer and holding a notebook over her head. Text: About half of children with dyslexia also have a language disorder. And about half of children with a language disorder also have dyslexia.

000

KU Life Span Institute @kulifespan.bsky.social · 18/09/2026

Thinking about college after high school? Students with #IDD and their families are invited to learn more about the KU Transition to Postsecondary Education program in any of several virtual and in-person info meetings! Learn more and register: loom.ly/gaEcW0I #ThinkCollege #RockChalk

Is KU for you? Find out about higher education opportunities for students with intellectual disabilities. Online information sessions @ 5:30 CST. Sept. 22; Oct. 29; Nov. 18; Dec. 8. In person information sessions Oct. 5, Oct. 6, Oct. 13, Oct. 20, Oct. 21, Nov. 3, Nov. 4, Nov. 17. REGISTER: rockcha.lk/tpe26

000

KU Life Span Institute @kulifespan.bsky.social · 17/09/2026

🎉 Congratulations to Life Span Institute-affiliated researcher Raúl Rojas on being selected as one of 10 KU faculty members for the 2026-27 Senior Administrative Fellows cohort! #KUResearch #LifeSpanInstitute

Congratulations. Senior Administrative Fellow 2026-27. Raul Rojas. Director of the Bilingual Language Laboratory.

000

KU Life Span Institute @kulifespan.bsky.social · 16/09/2026

Research doesn't just help us understand health today. It helps us build healthier environments for future generations. In a new Q&A, KU researcher Tera Fazzino discusses how historical tobacco industry practices influenced the global food supply. 🔗 loom.ly/lCjAD2U

'Leave them wanting more' was a direct quote from tobacco companies about the beverages and food they manufactured. Dr. Tera Fazzino, Cofrin Logan Center for Addiction Research and Treatment

Telling people it's basically on them, when we have growing evidence that these foods have elevated addictive qualities, is completely unfair. Dr. Tera Fazzino,
Cofrin Logan Center for Addiction Research and Treatment

000

KU Life Span Institute @kulifespan.bsky.social · 14/09/2026

A KU-led initiative is bringing youth and community partners together to build a safer future in #WyandotteCounty. A new study by Jomella Watson-Thompson and her team at found the initiative is associated with a 42.3% reduction in youth homicide rates in the areas it serves. loom.ly/UTkufD4

A group of young adults stand together in front of an outdoor mural. Text overlaid reads: These findings highlight the impact of youth-centered, collaborative efforts that bring together young people, families and cross-sector partners to create environments where youth are engaged, supported and able to envision their future in the present. Dr. Jomella Watson-Thompson, ThrYve Director

000

KU Life Span Institute @kulifespan.bsky.social · 11/09/2026

KU researcher Lyndsie Koon (center) and colleagues attended the Midwest Ability Summit in Overland Park to connect with people with disabilities, care partners and disability organizations from across the region.

Lyndsie Koon (center) and a woman at left and a man at right stand at a table set up at the Midwest Ability Summit. Two photos inset show a man demonstrate exercise to a girl while they are both seated.

010

KU Life Span Institute @kulifespan.bsky.social · 10/09/2026

Projects such as WRITE, VOISS, and AI-SCORE show how technology can help make learning more accessible, engaging and effective for students with disabilities and diverse learning needs. #Literacy #SpecialEducation #KUResearch

3 KU-developed tools for educators that use technology to make learning more accessible, engaging and effective for diverse learners. Swipe to find out.

VOISS: Virtual reality Opportunity to Integrate Social Skills. VOISS is the research-backed extended reality platform designed to help middle school students develop essential social skills with scenario-based play. https://www.voissxr.com

AI SCORE: Artificial Intelligence Scored Composition to Improve Outcomes for Written Expression. AI SCORE:
Artificial Intelligence Scored Composition to Improve Outcomes for Written Expression. https://lifespan.ku.edu/aiscore

WRITE: Writing stRategies for Instructional Technology in Education. WRITE provides educators with evidence-based strategies, technology recommendations, and resources to help all students develop essential writing skills that unlock academic success. https://writingclassroom.org

010

KU Life Span Institute @kulifespan.bsky.social · 09/09/2026

Congratulations to the KU Life Span Institute-affiliated Kansas LEND program for being named one of KU's inaugural Community Impact Champions. The recognition highlights partnerships that strengthen communities across Kansas through collaboration, learning and service. #DisabilityInclusion #Kansas

A preteen boy looks up at the camera while drawing with a marker. Text: LEND by the numbers. From the 2025 annual report: 1,931 LEND Trainees since 2010; 1,380 sessions led by school-based health workers for 308 students and their families; 9,622 Attendees to LEND webinars since 2019;
32 years of LEND conducting outreach clinics across Kansas

000

KU Life Span Institute @kulifespan.bsky.social · 08/09/2026

Children can learn to recognize words but still struggle to understand what they're reading. This #NationalLiteracyMonth, we're highlighting research-based tips showing that strong language skills help lay the foundation for successful reading and learning. #Literacy #EdResearch

A baby plays with a board book. Text: Did you know? Literacy starts before reading even begins. For ideas to boost literacy ... try these ideas?

A child and his mom wash a tomato in the sink. Text: Narrate what you're doing throughout your day: Describe turning on the water, washing vegetables, or making dinner.

A child points out something to show his dad. Text: Pick a word of the day: See how often you can find ways to use it together.

A dad lays on the floor and smiles at his child while he is talking. Text: Ask your child to tell you something that happened today: What games did they play? What did they eat at lunch? Who made them laugh and why?

011

KU Life Span Institute @kulifespan.bsky.social · 05/09/2026

How can Kansas improve maternal health outcomes and ensure families have access to the care they need? Researchers from the KU Life Span Institute worked to examine gaps in maternal health care. Read about it in the @kansasreflector.com loom.ly/lIM8Bgg

A woman with a long braid kisses the check of her newborn baby. Text: Kansas women are twice as likely to die during pregnancy, childbirth or postpartum than 20 years ago. New report outlines strategies to improve maternal health care access and outcomes across Kansas.

000

KU Life Span Institute @kulifespan.bsky.social · 03/09/2026

KU researcher Tera Fazzino has received grant to investigate whether hyperpalatable foods may have addictive properties. The study could help inform future food policy and regulation. Learn more: loom.ly/dydCMtE #KUResearch #PublicHealth #NutritionScience #AddictionResearch

Five different bowls of chips are shown with text: Hyperpalatable foods are formulated with artificially high levels of fat, salt and carbohydrates, combinations that are uncommon in nature and may increase a food's reinforcing effects.

000

KU Life Span Institute @kulifespan.bsky.social · 02/09/2026

Recovery is possible, and research helps make it possible for more people. This National Recovery Month, we're recognizing how research at the KU Life Span Institute advances the understanding, prevention and treatment of addiction and related disorders. #NationalRecoveryMonth #RecoveryMonth2026

010

KU Life Span Institute @kulifespan.bsky.social · 31/08/2026

How can behavioral economics inform the science of addiction treatment? Join us Friday to hear Lara Coughlin, associate professor at the @umich.edu, discuss behavioral economic approaches to substance use treatment. Details and livestream: loom.ly/X8mjnTE

Cofrin Logan Center Seminar Series. 11:30 a.m. CST Sept. 4
@Dole HDC (with a virtual option). Dr. Lara Coughlin, Associate Professor at the University of Michigan, presents "Bringing Behavioral Economics to Addiction Care Practice."

010

KU Life Span Institute @kulifespan.bsky.social · 27/08/2026

Are you seeing a lot of big emotions with the return of school? (Or maybe feeling some yourself?) We have some guidance to help caregivers navigate the complex skills needed for self-regulation. Watch this video for more: loom.ly/6B6noRw #MentalHealth #KidsHealth

An illustration of people dancing. Text reads: 3 ways to help kids practice self-regulation

An illustration of people dancing continued. Text reads: 1) Help children identify and name their emotions.

An illustration of people dancing continued. Text reads: 2) Validate feelings before problem-solving.

An illustration of people dancing continued. Text reads: 3) Practice calming strategies while kids are calm. From the Kansas Family Support Center

010

KU Life Span Institute @kulifespan.bsky.social · 24/08/2026

Kansas parents, back-to-school season can bring big feelings—for children and for you. If your child is feeling anxious, our chatbot can offer practical guidance, answer your questions and help you find resources and organizations in your area. Learn more: kfsc-resources.ku.edu

An illustration of a woman holding a frowning child in an embrace. Text: Kansas Autism and Disability Resource Navigator. Trusted answers whenever you need them. kfsc-resources.ku.edu

010

KU Life Span Institute @kulifespan.bsky.social · 19/08/2026

Seventy years ago, Dick Schiefelbusch stepped into the role of director of what is now the Life Span Institute. His leadership helped set the stage for generations of impact. Today, the University of Kansas ranks first in the world for Developmental Disability research. Follow us for more.

Dr. Dick Schiefelbusch, 1918-2020. Dick (Schiefelbusch) was ahead of his time in creating a culture of dedication among the scientists and staff. ... His culture continues to this day at the Life Span Institute, and it charges us to conduct rigorous and high-quality research on intellectual disability, physical disability, developmental problems. John Colombo, Life Span Institute Director 2008-present

000

KU Life Span Institute @kulifespan.bsky.social · 18/08/2026

KU is one of just 71 members of the @aau.edu, joining ivy leagues and other flagship research universities across the U.S. and Canada. As KU's largest research institute, we are proud of our contribution science for Kansans and people everywhere.

Images of the KU campus with text: World class research.
Kansas roots

000

KU Life Span Institute @kulifespan.bsky.social · 13/08/2026

Get to know us! The Life Span Institute is made up of more than 400 researchers, staff and students. Today, we're introducing Lisa Hallberg, a senior research database and software engineer in Research Design and Analysis at our Central Office. Read the rest of our Q&A: loom.ly/PGJapDM

Lisa Hallberg stands outside the Dole Human Development Center. Text reads: Get to know: Lisa Hallberg. Q: What are you most proud of in your role at KU? Swipe to see her answer ...

Text: "I love knowing that I'm helping improve the chances that these research projects will succeed. I'm supporting people who are doing amazing work to help others, and by supporting them, I get to support that bigger mission."

010

KU Life Span Institute @kulifespan.bsky.social · 11/08/2026

Help us congratulate Sean Smith, professor of special education at KU and Life Span Institute-affiliated researcher. He was named the 2026 David Rose UDL Research Award winner from @cast-udl.bsky.social. Read more: loom.ly/5savO1g

Congratulations. Sean Smith, 2026 David Rose UDL Research Award Recipient

010

KU Life Span Institute @kulifespan.bsky.social · 06/08/2026

Maria Hugh at @kucdisabilities.bsky.social is working to address implementation gap by helping educators anticipate barriers and develop action plans. It's a strategy that led educators to better adopt evidence-based practices. 🔗 loom.ly/7dU1hlY

"There are a lot of things that we know to do would be good for us, but for many reasons we don’t actually do. Some of those reasons are out of our control. Some are due to our internal thoughts and behaviors. ... My work focuses on those internal reasons." Maria Hugh, KU Center on Disabilities

001

KU Life Span Institute @kulifespan.bsky.social · 04/08/2026

Being a teacher can be ... a lot. @mariahugh.bsky.social at @kucdisabilities.bsky.social researches how to help educators more easily learn, equip & sustain evidence based practices. Get to know her: loom.ly/uHyoCKI

A teacher sits in a classroom with her head in hands while speaking to another teacher at a desk. Text: In society, teachers are often viewed as heroic or self-sacrificial, but we need to give them support so they can continue provide students the best available practices. Maria Hugh | KU Center on Disabilities

001

KU Life Span Institute @kulifespan.bsky.social · 03/08/2026

The Life Span Institute is made up of more than 400 scientists, students, and staff. This week, we’re highlighting our Q&A with Maria Hugh, at @kucdisabilities.bsky.social, and her work to improve access to education and learning. loom.ly/uHyoCKI

000

KU Life Span Institute @kulifespan.bsky.social · 31/07/2026

Why does literacy matter? KU researchers are partnering with the state to improve literacy in Kansas schools, with an impact goes far beyond the classroom. Here's how: 1. It influences how much people earn 2. It’s linked to incarceration rates 3. It can shape health outcomes and lifespan

A boy reads a book. Text: KU researchers are working with the state to improve literacy in Kansas schools. Why is literacy so important?

Literacy impacts income into adulthood. Adults who are at the minimum level of proficiency in literacy tend to make 85% more than those at the lowest literacy levels (Gallup report, 2020).

Image 3: Literacy impacts incarceration rates. Only about 30% of people in prison read above a 4th-grade level, compared to about 80% of the general population (U.S. Department of Justice).

Image 4: Literacy impacts health outcomes. Low levels of literacy and education are linked to decreased life expectancy with gaps of more than 10 years between groups (The Lancet, 2025).

000

KU Life Span Institute @kulifespan.bsky.social · 29/07/2026

Local educators are eager for science-based #literacy training, but in a recent statewide needs assessment, less than half (45%) said their district has personnel with science-based literacy preparation. Find out how we're working with the state to bridge that gap. 🔗 loom.ly/5T5UfQM

A male teacher works with two students at their desk who are writing in a notebook. Text: The state's Blueprint for Literacy calls for 100% of elementary teachers in Kansas to earn credentials in reading and literacy by 2030.

000

KU Life Span Institute @kulifespan.bsky.social · 28/07/2026

In case you missed it, you can still check out our article on accessibility in fitness: loom.ly/qAv3J9A

loom.ly

010

KU Life Span Institute @kulifespan.bsky.social · 27/07/2026

An online repository of literacy solutions and resources that will be accessible to Kansans across the state. Literacy Bridges website will contain tools and information tailored to the needs of Kansas schools, students and families. loom.ly/5T5UfQM

Our dream is to create amazing resources aligned with the latest literacy research for educators, families and students to use, regardless of where they are. Suzanne Myers, Co-director of the KU Center for Research on Learning

000

KU Life Span Institute @kulifespan.bsky.social · 24/07/2026

During #NationalFragileXAwarenessMonth, did you know the KU Life Span Institute is home to one of the nation's longest-running studies on #FragileX and its impact on families? Interested in learning more about our work in understanding #FXS? Visit fragilexlab.ku.edu

An illustration of a woman pulling luggage at an airport terminal with images representing research on Fragile X syndrome.

000

KU Life Span Institute @kulifespan.bsky.social · 23/07/2026

Did you catch today's On the Record interview? KU Life Span Institute staff and scientists explained the expertly-trained chatbot designed to connect families in Kansas to local autism resources. Want to learn more? Stream the show now at: loom.ly/nvUIEwM

Three men take a selfie photo while sitting at desk with a microphone at a radio show

000

KU Life Span Institute @kulifespan.bsky.social · 22/07/2026

Set your alarm! Tomorrow at 8 a.m., KU #autism experts will go live on 101.7 FM to explain all about the chatbot designed to connect Kansas families to autism resources in their area. 🔗 www.klwn.com

A radio studio is shown with text that reads: Listen live 8 a.m. July 23 on 101.7 FM in Lawrence. Learn about the online tool to connect Kansas families to local autism resources.

000

Reposted by KU Life Span Institute

Kansas State Department of Education @ksde.bsky.social · 21/07/2026

Looking for summer food options for kids? SUN Meals makes it easy with free meals at neighborhood locations for children ages 1–18. Find a meal site near you: buff.ly/Pj2KCh0

001

KU Life Span Institute @kulifespan.bsky.social · 20/07/2026

Navigating disability support in rural areas is challenging. The Kansas Family Support Center at KU provides statewide education, training, and resources for youth with #autism and #IDD, no matter where in #Kansas they live. Learn more: kfsc.ku.edu

An image of a farm with text that reads: 25% of families served by the Kansas Family Support Center live outside the 3 major metro areas of Kansas.

010

Reposted by KU Life Span Institute

KU Center on Disabilities @kucdisabilities.bsky.social · 16/07/2026

Come celebrate the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)’s passing into law with us! Join us at the Dole Institute of Politics from 1-5PM on Saturday, June 25, 2026, and learn about the history and impact of the ADA. Learn and register @ bit.ly/ada_celebration_lawrence

Celebrate the 36th Anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
Learn about the history and impact of the ADA from various guest speakers
Visit resource tables from various advocacy organizations in Kansas
Watch a welcome address from Iowa
Senator Tom Harkin, an author of the ADA
Learn more and register at bit.ly/ada_celebration_lawrence

Dole Institute of Politics Saturday, July 25, 2026
2350 Petefish Dr.
1:00PM-5:00PM
Lawrence, KS 66045

001

KU Life Span Institute @kulifespan.bsky.social · 16/07/2026

KU researchers and staff recently briefed the #Kansas Legislature on the impact of the Kansas Family Support Center, including their newly launched custom AI resource navigator. Details at loom.ly/AivcJWo

A woman smiles while holding her older daughter in an embrace

000

KU Life Span Institute @kulifespan.bsky.social · 15/07/2026

We are proud to highlight the work of Lyndsie Koon, KU Life Span Institute researcher. The latest "I Am Striving" series shared how she's helping to change expectations of what people with mobility disabilities can achieve through inclusive functional fitness. loom.ly/-qmQ8Yg #KUresearch

"I was originally inspired by people with mobility disabilities who were already participating in functional fitness. They were ... showing the world what they could do, and they were showing the world the effects that it had on their health." Lyndsey Koon,
Assistant research professor at the KU Life Span Institute

000

KU Life Span Institute @kulifespan.bsky.social · 14/07/2026

KU researchers were honored by @aaidd.bsky.social for contributions to research in #IDD. Help us celebrate honorees Lauren Bruno and Karrie Shogren at @kucdisabilities.bsky.social for their efforts! 🔗 loom.ly/RkjcGo4

Lauren Bruno, Early Career Award.
American Association on Intellectual and Developmental
Disabilities. Karrie Shogren, Educator Award.

000

KU Life Span Institute @kulifespan.bsky.social · 10/07/2026

Not all disabilities are obvious to others. Examples of invisible disabilities include chronic pain, mental health disorders, and developmental conditions. That's why KU researchers work to understand and develop supports for individuals with disabilities in Kansas and across the U.S.

A disability pride heart is shown. Text reads: Disability Pride Month.

020

KU Life Span Institute @kulifespan.bsky.social · 08/07/2026

Roughly 20% of Americans live with #ChronicPain, but the health impacts go much deeper. Researchers found people living with chronic pain are much more likely to smoke cigarettes or vape nicotine, with the highest rates among people with the most severe pain. Learn more: loom.ly/lZI050M

Adults with chronic pain are nearly twice as likely to smoke cigarettes compared to those without chronic pain. With Chronic Pain: 13.1%. Without Chronic Pain: 7.5%.

010

KU Life Span Institute @kulifespan.bsky.social · 06/07/2026

📚 Did you know? 80% of students with learning disabilities read below grade level. This #DisabilityPrideMonth, we’re highlighting the importance of access to literacy education. KU researchers are working with partners across #Kansas so that every student has the opportunity to succeed.

010

KU Life Span Institute @kulifespan.bsky.social · 02/07/2026

How does our childhood environment shape the decisions we make as adults? 🧠🌱 A recent meta-analysis from the KU Life Span Institute reveals a powerful link between early home environments and adult decision-making. 🧪 📖 Read the full report: loom.ly/VLKzY8U #KUresearch #AddictionScience

A woman holds her child with text that reads: Research shows children are significantly less likely to make impulsive and often destruction decisions later in life who when they grow up in homes without: verbal aggression, physical discipline, or humiliation

000

KU Life Span Institute @kulifespan.bsky.social · 30/06/2026

Why do so many great public health, rehab, and financial literacy programs suffer from high dropout rates? Communities and clinicians looking to improve public health can look to promote engaging initiatives that encourage participation over lecture-based programs.

An illustration of two hands knitting an outline of a brain. Text reads: Lots of treatments work, but people have to keep on doing it. And if it's boring, then people just stop doing it. Richard Yi, Director of the Cofrin Logan Center for Addiction Research and Treatment

000

KU Life Span Institute @kulifespan.bsky.social · 26/06/2026

When diagnoses shift but symptoms persist, patients can fall through the cracks. #kuResearch highlights why symptom-level understanding may improve treatment planning. Read about the study: loom.ly/RKjFEvw

"People are wanting a system that is going to be more clinically helpful and also convey more information about prognosis." Dr. Kelsie Forbush,Director of CARE at KU

000

KU Life Span Institute @kulifespan.bsky.social · 25/06/2026

Today, we’re highlighting our 6‑question Q&A with Christina Holt, Interim Director at KU Center for Community Health. Her work helps communities tackle big challenges and create lasting improvements in health and well‑being. loom.ly/TWmPrrQ

"We direct our focus toward policy, systems, and environmental change at the community and systems levels. While this work may not seem immediately personal, it has significant effects on people’s everyday lives." Christina Holt,Interim Director of the Center for Community Health and Development

000

KU Life Span Institute @kulifespan.bsky.social · 24/06/2026

Eating disorders often appear differently in men and boys. However, gender bias means they are less likely to be assessed or diagnosed. #KUresearch is looking to better understand the diversity of this mental health condition to better diagnosis and treat #EatingDisorders. #MensHealthMonth

A man looks into the mirror at himself at a gym while reaching for weights. Text reads: About one in three people struggling with an eating disorder is male.

000

KU Life Span Institute @kulifespan.bsky.social · 23/06/2026

On this day 27 years ago, Lois Curtis helped secure a landmark victory for disability rights—affirming the right of people with disabilities to live in their communities, not institutions. Today, that legacy is facing new challenges. Learn why this ruling still matters: loom.ly/X90LfH0

A woman smiles in a photo collage of images including the statue of Blind Justice and the Supreme Court Building. Text: Lois Curtis, Disability Rights Advocate

030

KU Life Span Institute @kulifespan.bsky.social · 18/06/2026

A growing body of research is examining the health impacts of ultra‑processed foods. The American Journal of Public Health dives into this topic in an issue dedicated to these concerns with Life Span Institute researcher Tera Fazzino. #AddictionScience Explore the full issue: loom.ly/EhY4sPg

Bags of packaged cookies are shown in the background with an image of the cover of the AJPH journal pointing to the quote: "U.S. tobacco companies and their food companies were systemically involved with developing hyper-palatable foods, which have elevated addictive properties." Tera Fazzino, et al., American Journal of Public Health, July 2026

000