Welcome to the June 2025 Learning Brain News.

Enjoy this month's instalment of our newsletter. As always, it is packed with links that you may find interesting. Here are some that especially caught our attention:

• AI handwriting analysis as a dyslexia screener
• A new board game helps people with autism express emotions
• Sitting too much is linked to cognitive decline

The Learning Brain News Team 

Sitting for Hours May Shrink Your Brain

Prolonged sitting by adults over 50 is linked to cognitive decline and brain shrinkage in regions vulnerable to Alzheimer’s disease. Even among those who exercise regularly, spending more time sitting was associated with worse cognitive outcomes.

Newly Identified Group of Nerve Cells in the Brain Regulates Bodyweight

Researchers have discovered a small group of nerve cells in the hypothalamus of mouse brains that influence eating behaviour and weight gain. This discovery could pave the way for the development of new targeted anti-obesity drugs.

AI Handwriting Analysis May Catch Dyslexia and Dysgraphia Early

A new AI-driven tool could revolutionise how educators and clinicians screen for dyslexia and dysgraphia. By analysing handwriting samples from K–5 students, the system detects behavioural cues, spelling errors, motor difficulties, and cognitive issues with remarkable precision.

The Nature of Nostalgia: How Time Transforms Emotion in Memory

New research reveals that nostalgic memories don’t remain emotionally static. They evolve over time. While these memories are typically rich in positive feelings at the time they occur, those feelings tend to fade, making space for rising negative emotions like regret and loneliness.

Board Game Helps Autistic Players Express Emotions

A new study finds that the storytelling board game Dixit may help people with autism express their thoughts and emotions. By selecting from illustrated cards, players can convey personal experiences and discuss complex topics like identity, anxiety, and social misunderstanding.

Poor Listening Skills - Could it be Auditory Processing Disorder?

Do you have a child or student with poor listening skills? Auditory processing disorder may be the cause. How do you know & how can you help them?