The Parenting Science Blog

The Parenting Science blog alerts you to new postings on the Parenting Science website. It will also feature my commentaries (or rants!) on current events and discoveries in anthropology, evolutionary biology, psychology, and the popular culture.

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Feb 6, 2010, The permissive parenting style: Does it ever benefit kids?

The permissive parenting style isn't the best approach to kids...unless you live in Spain...?! Why different studies reach different conclusions about child-rearing.

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Jan 30, 2010, Permissive parenting: A guide for the science-minded parent

Permissive parenting seems to be the "no discipline" approach to discipline. A threat to civilization? Not necessarily. But it depends on how you define it.

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Jan 23, 2010, The effects of video games on social behavior: Games that promote helpfulness

The effects of video games aren't all negative. Studies suggest that some games make kids more

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Jan 15, 2010, Educational video games

Someday, educational video games may revolutionize the way we teach our kids. Are there any good games available now?

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Jan 9, 2010, Smart toys and educational games for kids

The Parenting Science guide to developmental toys and educational games for kids.

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Jan 1, 2010, Video game addiction: A Parenting Science guide

What is video game addiction? Check out the research and this diagnostic questionnaire about pathological gaming in children.

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Dec 28, 2009, Kids on the witness stand...with dogs?

In the Western United States, prosecutors are using friendly dogs to comfort young children who testify against adults in court. Having a dog to hold can soothe a frightened kid. But some defense attorneys complain that the presence of a "comfort dog" prejudices the case against the accused. Read attorney Jay Gaskill's argument in favor of comfort dogs for young witnesses.

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Dec 26, 2009, Violent video games : A Parenting Science guide

Are violent video games bad for kids? Parenting Science takes a critical look at the research.

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Dec 19, 2009, Teaching critical thinking: A Parenting Science guide

Can you make kids smarter by teaching them principles of logic, reasoning, and hypothesis testing? Yes! Learn how teaching critical thinking to kids can boost IQ and enhance problem-solving skills.

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Dec 12, 2009, Girl toys, boy toys, and parenting: The science of toy preferences

Yes, there are

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Dec 6, 2009, Hisss! A game review

This stylish variant of dominoes is a good introductory game for young children, and it has the all-important virtues of simplicity, brevity, and

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Dec 4, 2009, Cooperative board games for kids

Do cooperative board games make kids less aggressive? Maybe not. But they are excellent opportunities to teach young children about rules, tactics, and good sportsmanship.

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Dec 4, 2009, Preschool board games: Reviews for the science-minded

It's hard to find preschool board games that don't bore adults. Check out these recommendations for the science-minded. And make some of your own!

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Nov 27, 2009, Board games for kids: Do they have educational benefits?

Board games can be used to teach good sportsmanship. Can they make our kids smarter, too? Maybe. Check out the evidence regarding board games for kids.

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Nov 23, 2009, Online study for parents of teens (13-17)

Dr. Jennifer Epstein is conducting a study about the teens, computers, and electronic games. If you are a parent with a teen (13-17), she'd like you to fill out her questionnaire.

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Nov 22, 2009, Mancala games for kids

Looking for activities to motivate your school-aged kids to count and think strategically? Try these Mancala games for kids.

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Nov 14, 2009, Helping kids learn math and science: Why kids benefit when they teach others

Want to help your kids learn math and science? Ask them explain--or, better yet--teach what they are learning in their own words. This simple tactic can help kids master new material.

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Nov 14, 2009, Ads, links, and reprints: FAQs about Parenting Science

Have a question about advertising? Links? Reprints? Before you write to me, please read my answers to these frequently asked questions.

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Nov 7, 2009, Weighing the benefits of milk consumption: Is it good for kids?

Is cow's milk good or bad? Check out this evidence-based guide to the risks and benefits of milk consumption for kids.

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Oct 31, 2009, Infant crying in anthropological perspective: How parents matter

Can you prevent infant crying by changing your approach to baby care? Maybe...and maybe not. Read about baby soothing techniques, smoke and alcohol, hunter-gatherers, and more.

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Oct 29, 2009, The Parenting Science Book Shop

Recommended readings, hand-picked by Gwen Dewar and sold by Amazon.com. Your purchases will help support the Parenting Science website.

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