Cognitive development Archives - Page 2 of 5

Structured block play: Can construction toys boost STEM achievement?

November 29, 2023November 24, 2023

colorful castle made from children's blocks

There are many ways to play with blocks. One approach — structured block play — may be especially helpful for promoting STEM achievement.

Teaching self-control: Evidence-based tips

November 17, 2023November 17, 2023

Teaching self-control? Kids benefit when we remove temptations and distractions; offer timely reminders; and show kids how to stick to a plan.

Delayed gratification isn’t just about willpower

May 15, 2023May 15, 2023

young boy sits with head in hands, staring longingly at a single marshmallow

Delayed gratification isn’t always a matter of willpower. When adults appear unreliable – or downright untrustworthy – kids choose instant rewards over future benefits. And children show an increased willingness to wait if they believe their peers will do the same.

Newborn cognitive development: What are babies thinking and learning?

April 7, 2024May 8, 2023

newborn very attentive to and fascinated by mother who is talking and touching baby

The newborn brain is busy processing information, searching for patterns, and learning. Here’s a fascinating look at newborn cognitive development.

Talking to babies: How face-to-face communication helps infants experience “brain-to-brain synchrony”

June 15, 2024April 28, 2023

baby crawling toward mother, both gazing into each other's eyes and talking

Talking to babies helps them learn speech. But nonverbal cues may teach something more — the ability to synchronize their thoughts and feelings with those of another person.

Baby communication: Why your baby prefers infant-directed speech

March 25, 2024April 24, 2023

Mother holding toddler, on the grass, and talking face to face

Baby communication operates on many channels, including sight and touch. But infant-directed speech plays a special role in language learning.

Naps help babies learn and remember

March 25, 2024April 14, 2023

cute baby, taking a nap, smiling in her sleep

Naps help babies learn and remember. In fact, babies may require timely naps to transfer new information and skills into long-term memory. Does this mean we should be forcing our babies to take lots of naps? No. But we should treat naps with respect…and realize that the last hour (or so) before sleep is prime time for learning.