Organized semantic networks reflecting distinctions within and across domains of knowledge are critical for higher-level cognition. Thus, understanding how semantic structure changes with experience is a fundamental question in developmental science. This study probed changes in semantic structure in 4-6 year-old children (N = 29) as a result of…

To assess the influence of activity on the construction of spatial representations, first- and sixth-graders were assigned to each of three conditions. The child either walked through the environment, performed isolated tasks at four of the environments, or performed interdependent tasks at four of the locations. (Author/MP)

Examined the relation of positive affect to attention and learning in 5-, 7-, and 9-month olds. Found that at all ages positive affect was associated with long look durations and slower learning. Neutral affect was associated with short looks and faster learning. Learning was faster than expected for infants displaying both short looks and neutral…

Used kinematic measures to compare relative contributions of growing body dimensions, age, and walking experience in walking skill development in 9- to 17-month-olds, kindergartners, and college students. Found that with increased age, size, and experience, children's steps became longer, narrower, straighter, and more consistent, reflecting a…