Words are good. Conversation is better. That’s the message of a study released today in the journal Pediatrics that links young children’s language skills to the amount of time that adults engage them in back-and-forth exchanges. Past research has shown that cognitive abilities are strongest among children whose parents use many words in speaking to them. Today’s study builds on those findings, showing what many child development experts have stressed for years—that some of the strongest learning moments happen in interactions between caregivers and young children.

http://www.newamerica.net/blog/early-ed-watch/2009/ucla-study-give-young-children-chance-converse-12838

Children need play. Before the age of five, experts agree, playing is learning. It’s how children explore the world around them and grow physically and mentally. Carolyn Pirak from Talaris Institute discusses the importance of play and how it differs for infants, toddlers and preschoolers.

http://www.king5.com/archive/60068777.html

“Today’s parents want the best for their children and are seeking parenting information and products they can trust. At Talaris, we are experiencing a great deal of interest in our research‑based parenting materials. To help meet this demand, we are growing our organization. We are thrilled to be welcoming five highly talented new members of our team,”

says Katie Simons, Executive Director, of Talaris Institute.

http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/talaris-fills-five-key-positions-to-meet-demand-62128322.html

A recent study confirms that increased televison time in a household leads to decreased verbal interaction between parent and child.  Since interaction is one of the most important ways to stimulate a baby’s brain growth, less interaction can only lead to less productive brain growth.  The study also explored the impact of television on young children’s verbal development.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/31051013