Children, Explained
Plain-English breakdowns of the research on children and well-being.
3 studies, broken down in plain English.
Can One Family Session Ease Teen Anxiety and Depression?
A rigorous trial of PC-SMILE, a single-session digital growth-mindset program for parents and teens, found it did not significantly reduce adolescent depression or anxiety. Descriptively, the parent-child version showed short-term improvement in hopelessness and lasting gains in the parent-child relationship, a reminder to hold modest expectations for quick fixes.
Move, Eat, Sleep: A Wellness Trio for Young Minds
This overview of youth wellbeing frames three ordinary habits, regular physical activity, good nutrition, and adequate sleep, as active contributors to a healthy young mind. Set within a flourishing model (PERMA), these basics are presented as mutually reinforcing raw materials for feeling better, not just chores. It is general information, not medical advice.
Turning Everyday Play Into Self-Regulation Practice
Partners in Play trains parents to turn everyday play into self-regulation practice. In its first randomized trial of 21 families, parents significantly increased their autonomy-supportive guidance, coaching that lets a child work through challenges. Children's own self-regulation gains were moderate but not statistically significant in this small proof-of-concept study.
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