0 - 12 Months
The Marshmallow Test: What Executive Function Predicts About Babies

Executive function is a hot topic in brain research. The marshmallow test is a widely referenced study suggesting that the ability to delay gratification is an indicator of success in life. Impulse control is one of a suite of skills associated with executive function.
Jessica Rolph is accompanied by an expert in this field, Dr. Melissa Clearfield, a professor of psychology at Whitman University. In this episode, Melissa shares her research on executive function in babies, along with some grounding advice for parents on connecting with their babies. That connection, she explains, is the foundation for the relationships that your baby will have later on in life.
Key Takeaways:
[1:46] Melissa defines executive function and its link to success later in life.
[3:08] Signs of executive function in the baby’s first year of life.
[4:21] Melissa shares interventions that can boost executive function.
[6:25] The importance of parents giving baby their undivided attention.
[8:17] Electronic toys and babies.
[9:40] Simple toys promote learning, exploration and cognitive development.
[10:06] When is it beneficial to offer your child multiple levels of stimulation?
[12:13] How to model good executive function for children.
[13:50] The attachment style that you have with your infant sets the stage for that child’s attachment style later in life in their romantic partnership.
[14:50] Play for Success.
Mentioned in this episode:
Learn more about Dr. Melissa Clearfield
Keep reading

0 - 12 Weeks
3 - 4 Months
5 - 6 Months
7 - 8 Months
9 - 10 Months
11 - 12 Months
0 - 12 Months
The complete guide to baby development milestones
We compiled this expert guide to help you know what to expect for your baby's growth and month-by-month development.

12 - 48 Months
13 - 15 Months
0 - 12 Months
Celebrating Black History Month with babies and young children
Children of all races are never too young to take part in Black History Month. Here are ideas on how celebrate with your child, along with a list of books that center Black people and culture.

12 - 48 Months
0 - 12 Months
What are Montessori toys?
Some toys have characteristics that are aligned with Montessori principles. Learn what they are, why they can benefit your child, and how to introduce them.

12 - 48 Months
0 - 12 Months
You can’t balance work and parenting during Covid. That’s OK.
As we continue to adjust to new normals, some things have stayed the same: working while caring for young children during a pandemic is really hard. Here are a few ways to ease the burden.

0 - 12 Months
Diaper bag must-haves from real parents (and yes, all 30 are essential)
We talked to real parents about their must-have diaper bag essentials and on-the-go hacks. The list is extensive but ensures you won't be caught unprepared.

12 - 48 Months
0 - 12 Months
This powerful activity can change your child’s brain
Back-and-forth conversations with your baby have a significant impact on language development and are important for social, emotional, and cognitive growth.