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Infants, as early as six months, do see errors in arithmetic

Researchers have confirmed that infants can detect arithmetic errors, challenging the idea that executive attention systems develop later in childhood. The study used brain-monitoring technology to analyze infant responses to math problems, finding that they looked longer at screens with incorrect solutions.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 7, 2006

'Significant number' of parents of junior athletes adversely affect their child's development

A national survey of junior tennis coaches found that over half of parents have a positive influence on their children's development, but more than a third are harmful. Coaches identified excessive focus on winning, unrealistic expectations, and criticising as common problems, scoring them highly in terms of seriousness.

SourceBMJ Specialty Journals·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateMay 14, 2006

New tool taps drool for clues to childhood stress

A new study uses a salivary test to measure alpha amylase levels in children, finding that social relationships with mothers and teachers influence stress responses. The findings suggest that individual differences in alpha amylase levels can be linked to social problems, aggressive behavior, and cognitive/academic difficulties.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Social and Personal Relationships·DateApr 19, 2006

Help for siblings of children with special needs

A group intervention program has been shown to improve the psychological and emotional well-being of young siblings with chronic illness or developmental disabilities. The program increased their knowledge of their sibling's condition, feelings of connectedness, and competence.

SourceLifespan·JournalJournal of Pediatric Psychology·DateApr 10, 2006

Researchers identify new childhood-onset epilepsy disorder and its genetic cause

A new childhood-onset epilepsy disorder, cortical dysplasia-focal epilepsy syndrome (CDFE), has been identified in a group of Old Order Amish children. The disorder is caused by a genetic mutation in the CASPR2 protein, which plays a crucial role in maintaining physical contacts between neurons and neighboring glial cells.

SourceThe Translational Genomics Research Institute·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 29, 2006

SAGE launches research journal focusing on women, girls, and crime

The journal will focus on empirical research and theory related to women and girls in the criminal justice system, including research on female offenders and victims. It aims to demonstrate the gendered nature of crime and responses to crime, highlighting the need for a more nuanced understanding of female criminality.

SourceSAGE·JournalFeminist Criminology·DateMar 6, 2006

Children's self-esteem can affect their response to asthma

A study found that higher levels of self-esteem and problem-solving beliefs in urban, school-aged children with asthma helped counteract the negative effects of asthma and urban living. These factors were associated with fewer school absences, more participation in activities, and less missed sleep.

SourceLifespan·JournalJournal of School Health·DateFeb 22, 2006

Technology helps disabled kids find their voice

Laptop computers combining toy features with innovative tech are accelerating learning and communication ability in disabled children, according to Penn State researchers. The technology has shown a significant improvement in communication skills and vocabulary for early readers among 2-3 year olds.

Headache, sleep problems connected in children

A study of 100 children with chronic daily headache and 100 children with episodic headache found that sleep disturbance was a common issue in both groups. The researchers suggest that addressing sleep problems may help alleviate headaches and prevent the progression from episodic to chronic daily headache.