Abstract: Methods and devices for stimulating the development of phonetic categories by an infant. The device includes a memory element operative to store auditory pieces comprising isolated phonemes in a voice similar to the voice of the infant's parent. The method includes the steps of recording the infant's parent pronouncing isolated phonemes, and playing to the infant auditory pieces comprising isolated phonemes based on the recordings of the infant's parent.

Abstract: Methods and devices operative to play auditory pieces to an infant for stimulating the development of phonetic categories. Optionally, the device determines the auditory pieces to be played to the infant according to the age of the infant. The auditory pieces including isolated phonemes in the infant's parent's voice.

Abstract: Methods and devices for stimulating the development of phonetic categories by playing auditory pieces including isolated phonemes, including the steps of selecting the auditory pieces according to the infant's estimated development, and altering the selection when registering that the infant is ill. Other embodiments include receiving a measurement of the quantity of speech in the infant's vicinity and accordingly determining the auditory pieces to be played to the infant.

Abstract: Methods and computer programs for assisting a user to record at least one phoneme, quickly and accurately, including: showing the user an animation illustrating the movements in the vocal tract required to pronounce the phoneme; and recording the user.

Abstract: Methods and devices for stimulating an infant to develop additional phonetic categories, including: estimating the infant's development; and selecting an auditory piece appropriate to the estimated development. Wherein the auditory piece comprises isolated phonemes in the infant's parent's voice.

Abstract: Methods and computer programs for recording infant-directed speech, including: guiding a parent as to which sound to record; showing the parent an image of her infant, or asking the parent to look at an image of her infant, in order to encourage the parent to speak in an infant-directed manner; and recording the parent.