Research

We are interested in having preschool- and kindergarten-aged children play special computer games. While the children are playing these games, we use the child-friendly brain imaging technology, fNIRS, to see what parts of the brain are being used. 

Current Studies:

LEAF Study

The goal of the  Learning About Feelings (LEAF) study is to better understand how young children manage their feelings, and how this predicts their behavior in the future. 

Currently,  we’re recruiting children ages 3 1/2 through 5 years old who could be described as irritable. Examples of irritable behavior include (but are not limited to): grumpiness, being easily angered or upset, and being short-tempered.

This study is also available for children with Spanish-speaking parents.

If your child meets these criteria, [CLICK HERE] to learn more or participate.

Tantrum Study

The goal of the Tantrum Study is to better understand young children’s tantrum behaviors. We hope to achieve this by having children and parents wear wearable devices to inform us on what is happening in children’s and parents’ bodies (e.g., sleep, stress) before, during, and after tantrums occur. One long term goal of this study is to see if we can use advanced computer science methods to predict tantrums before they happen!

We are currently recruiting families with children between the ages of 3 1/2 and 6 years old to participate in the Tantrum Study. Participation would involve wearing wearable devices in the home, while going about daily activities, for 30 days.

Find out more about this study [HERE].

Upcoming Studies:

Self-Regulation Study

We will soon be recruiting 3 to 5 year old children to participate in our new study examining how young children’s brains and bodies work together during the development of self-regulation. Stay tuned!

You can learn more about this upcoming study [HERE].