FPG Snapshots

FPG Snapshots are short summaries of current research at FPG. Contact information is provided if you want to know more.

Talking to Children; Why Some Mothers Do It More

Issue # 53

05/08/08

Just as exposing children to books helps develop their interest in reading; talking to children helps develop their language abilities. Research shows that from a very young age, children are influenced by the manner in which their mothers verbally interact with them. An FPG study published in the May/June 2008 issue of The Journal of Applied Developmental Psychology, examines how mother and child characteristics might influence the way mothers talk to their infants.

Technology Stereotypes Broken When Children’s Health Involved

Issue # 52

03/04/08

In some cases, extenuating circumstances, such as health condition, increases Internet use among those with lower incomes and educations. A study of mothers of children with genetic disorders found that the Internet served as a major resource in parents’ quests for diagnosis, prognosis, treatments, services, and supports.

How Does Fragile X Syndrome Affect Speech and Language Skills?

Issue # 51

01/30/08

Recent articles by FPG researchers in several journals explore different facets of communication in boys with FXS, boys with FXS and autism, boys with Down syndrome, and boys developing typically.

Preschoolers Benefit from Mental Health Screening

Issue # 50

01/16/08

A new study by FPG researcher Oscar Barbarin demonstrates that preschoolers can benefit by a simple and inexpensive mental health screening process designed to flag potential signs of more serious problems.

Crossing the Language Divide

Issue # 49

10/22/07

A case study published in the August 2007 issue of the Early Childhood Education Journal by FPG investigator Christina Gillanders demonstrates how English-speaking prekindergarten teachers can cross the language barrier to build positive relationships with English language learners.

Caregiver Well-Being Affects Academic Achievement

Issue # 48

08/29/07

Research has shown repeatedly that poverty affects children’s academic achievement. But what specifically about poverty causes these harmful effects? According to a study by FPG Child Development Institute, it is the well-being of caregivers.