The Child Development and Mental Retardation Center of the University of Washington under the direction of Dr. Sidney Bijou had conducted research into the operant conditioning and reinforcement theories of B.F. Skinner as applicable to human learning.

From this research, they developed academic programs which for the first time proved the viability of teaching reading to people with severe mental limitations.

Bleil adapted this research into The Edmark Reading Program which for the next decade was the principal product of the company.

[1] Edmark hired former teacher Donna Stanger as vice president of product development in October 1991.

[7] Source:[14] Computer Gaming World in 1993 stated that "Bailey's Book House combines the best of educational theory with a loving attention to detail and an engaging presentation ... a real winner".