A study examined whether exemplar-specific or prototype representations were primarily used by 28 children (ages 10-12) with mild mental retardation in a categorization task consisting of two groups of make-believe animals whose features were ill-defined. Results indicated the children were able to acquire and use both types of representations.…

Discusses the coverage of current issues in the mathematics education of young children, noting the numerous examples of activities and processes. Argues that while some insights into mathematics learning and teaching have become outdated, the book is useful for educators working with young children. (JPB)

Studies the performance of freshmen biology and physics-mathematics majors and chemistry majors as well as pre- and in-service chemistry teachers at two Israeli universities on algorithmic (ALG), lower-order cognitive skills (LOCS), and higher-order cognitive skills (HOCS) chemistry exam questions. Finds that students in both universities…

Contrary to assumptions about aversive effects of competition on achievement motivation, in this study young people saw academic contests as fair. When participants completed structural interviews on fair ways to organize science contests and on differentiation of skill and luck, age-related trends in their conceptions of procedural justice were…

Asserts that Bennett's edited work offers an informed, sophisticated, and thought-provoking overview of current issues in developmental psychology. Notes the volume prompts theoretical and empirical reflection and provides fair representation of trends and advances in mainstream child developmental psychology. Suggests that a more thematic…

This article reviews some current principles of brain research, including the idea that intelligence and its nurture is no longer restricted to the linear, rational cognitive function, but includes the integration of the cognitive (linear and spatial), emotional-social, physical, and intuitive. The principles of teaching and learning supported by…

Etiology of verbal and performance delays were investigated in a large population sample of twins at 2 and 3 years (N=2,449 pair). Longitudinal genetic analyses indicated substantial heritability of verbal delay from 2 to 3 years, especially in combination with performance delay. Results suggest a strong genetic contribution to verbal delay…

A study examined theory of mind acquisition in 34 children (ages 5- 10) with deafness using four traditional false-belief tasks. Results indicate the age of the child was strongly related to theory of mind development and that the children were delayed by approximately 3 years in this cognitive developmental milestone. (Contains references.)…

Many parents question whether their children are ready for kindergarten and whether they can succeed. Teachers must determine where students stand as they guide them through their kindergarten skills. Parents can hone their children's kindergarten-readiness skills at home by providing creative, challenging activities that prepare them for the…

Maintains that advances in the literature on perception-action development suggests that tool use may be a more continuous developmental achievement than previously believed. Suggests new research directions, including efforts to investigate the processes by which children detect and relate affordances between objects, coordinate spatial frames of…

Studies by Tufts University's Center on Hunger and Poverty show conclusive links between nutrition and children's cognitive development. Cognitive defects can result from complex interactions between malnutrition and "environmental insults" that come from living in poverty. Poor nutrition has longterm consequences. Print and web…

Activation of change processes in cognitive capacity of 71 institutionalized adults with mental retardation in four age groups was investigated after the Instrumental Enrichment Program. The initial and final test scores of adults with Down syndrome were lower than those of adults with other forms of mental retardation. (Contains extensive…

Describes science-related questions asked by young students aged 4-6. Discusses appropriate responses to typical science questions. (WRM)

Examines the link between movement experiences--and their consequences during infancy--and cognitive development. Explains how movement stimulates cognitive development, the role of aerobic activity, and the importance of skill development. Offers suggestions for enhancing preschool motor learning experiences, practicing movement fundamentals,…

Discusses the importance of Montessori's Practical Life exercises for building character and self-esteem, more concern for others, better understanding for academic learning, and a self-nurturing, respectful classroom community. Considers aspects of movement and silence exercises for developing the child's contemplative and reflective nature that…