What is the “spaced learning” effect? If your child needs to learn something — and you want that learning to stick — the best approach is to space learning sessions apart in time. A single, long lesson is usually less effective than multiple, shorter lessons. Moreover, the ideal duration of a lesson may be much briefer than we realize — particularly for young children.
Working memory is often likened to RAM in a computer. The more you have, the more information you can juggle at once — allowing for faster processing. But of course we humans can’t improve our memory capacity by installing a new RAM stick. Nor can we expect new humans to perform at the highest level … Continue reading
Many parents use infant-directed speech, a register that is exaggerated, emotional, melodic, and higher-pitched. Are their babies better off? Does it help babies learn language at an earlier age?
Spatial skills are crucial for success in STEM and the visual arts. So what can we do help kids develop strong spatial reasoning abilities? Happily, a growing body of research points the way. Improving spatial skils is possible through a combination of physical exploration, spatial, talk, hands-on activities, and explicit instruction.
There are many ways to play with blocks. One approach — structured block play — may be especially helpful for promoting STEM achievement.
STEM books for kids? Math and science games? Resources to get kids thinking, coding, building? Recommendations from Parenting Science.
Social skills activities can help kids forge positive relationships, and better understand what other people are feeling and thinking. The key is finding games and exercises that match your child’s developmental capacities and needs. How do we help children develop social competence — the ability to read emotions, cooperate, make friends, and negotiate conflicts? Kids … Continue reading
Why do kids need daylight? Bright light boosts mood and concentration. It may help prevent disease, and enhance our ability to learn.
During summer break, kids can forget what they’ve learned at school, falling months behind. But studies suggest we can prevent summer learning loss. Here’s how.
Gestures aren’t just hand-waving. Learn how hand movements can help babies, school children, and even adults learn.
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. 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.