Track your baby’s development for free (and help researchers too)

Father sits in living room, on couch, baby on his lap, while he types on a notebook computer

July 4, 2023. Here’s an opportunity I’m excited to pass it on: Researchers at Brock University and the Université de Montréal are seeking parents to help them validate an online version of the Parent Observation Checklist (POC). In exchange for filling out a monthly questionnaire, participants will receive expert feedback about their children’s development. Interested? Here are the details.

The effects of air pollution on children

toddler crouched on a rock outdoors, with a factory in the distance - air pollution

Air pollution doesn’t just cause respiratory problems. It can also put kids at risk for premature cellular aging and inflammatory disease.

Treating postpartum depression benefits babies

baby sleeping on mother's shoulder

© 2021 Gwen Dewar, Ph.D., all rights reserved Treating postpartum depression is crucial for the well-being of mothers, but studies suggest that it benefits babies, too — improving an infant’s ability to regulate emotions. Imagine you’re a baby in a researcher’s laboratory. You are sitting on your mother’s lap, facing forward, gazing at a friendly … Continue reading

Data-driven tool for making wise decisions about social distancing

masked people queuing in outdoor shopping line

© 2020 Gwen Dewar, all rights reserved Wish you knew the risk of contagion at local venues and events? This online tool — created by bioinformatics researchers — can help. You want to grocery shopping. You’ll be one of approximately 50 shoppers inside the store. What’s the chance that at least one of these people … Continue reading

Vote for your child’s future: How to persuade people to cast a ballot

little girl lying on the grass, holding a world globe above her head

The world’s in trouble, and our kids can’t vote. So how do we persuade others to vote on their behalf? Hint: Shaming isn’t the answer. © 2020 GWEN DEWAR, PH.D., ALL RIGHTS RESERVED Our children aren’t getting the world they deserve.   Because generations of adults have failed to cope with global climate change, our … Continue reading

Parenting Science terms of use, copyright information, and disclaimer

Terms of use Here is some important legal information regarding your use of ParentingScience.com. The gist of it is that by using this site, you agree to certain terms of use—including my medical disclaimer, privacy policy, information about cookies, copyright information, and general liability. If you don’t agree with any of these terms and conditions, … Continue reading

Swimming pools and health risks: A parent’s evidence-based guide

© 2010-2013 Gwen Dewar, Ph.D., all rights reserved Are swimming pools a health hazard? Swimming is an excellent form of exercise. But like many activities, swimming in a pool has its downside. Despite attempts to disinfect the pool, some pathogens may still lurk in the water. And research suggests that disinfectants may pose their own … Continue reading

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