complex areas of the brain than previously thought, so much so that to solve a difficult problem it may be better for your child to switch to a simpler task and let her mind wander.■ In a study of more than 230 children, researchers at the University

TANTRUMS ARE A very common phenomenon in toddlers. That's because, at this age, a child's cognitive development is advancing very rapidly, but while he is able to imagine what he wants, his ability to wait and view the situation from another

Scary monsters, ghosts and ghouls Reassure your child that he is safe, and help him to feel secure and less anxious. A toddler may benefit from choosing a toy that can “protect” him; an older child may be reassured if he can take the time to explain

,” says Dr Evelyn McGregor, Lecturer in Child Development at Edinburgh University.2 Smile and your baby smiles with youIt’s one of the most wonderful moments – when your baby beams a great big smile back at you. It’s a fundamental interaction and a huge

AS THE LONG, lazy days of summer stretch ahead of us, how do you envisage filling the days? With idle pursuits like relaxing walks in the park, watching the leaves shimmering in the breeze, maybe a spot of rock-pooling or making footprints in the sand. Or are the days more likely...

Big boys do cryFrom an early age, boys can be made to feel that they should bottle up their emotions so as not to appear weak, which can be a lot to bear for a young child. Encourage your little boy to share his feelings and allow him to be upset

Break It Down Try asking for their three favourite things that day, or a game of taking it in turns to answer a question each about what you/ they have been up to.Keep questions specific For example, ask: “Did you do PE in the hall or outside?”, or "What book did your t...

to influence a child’s behaviours. Giving simple rewards – making cakes together for instance – are a good way to show how well they have done when reaching specific goals.More psychology from Junior:How to encourage empathy in your toddlerThe science behind

1. Be patient  Many toddlers go through stages of being scared of the dark. At this age, they're still separating reality from their vivid imaginations2. Acknowledge your child's fear  Tell her you understand that the dark can be a scary place

There's nothing like the giggle of your child to make your heart sing. Surely there's no sound sweeter. Try these corny jokes to make them smileWhat do you get if you cross a snowman with a vampire?  Frostbite!What do you call a snowman with a