Our Research
What ages do we study?
Throughout our over 40 years of research, we have conducted studies with children ranging from 3 months to 3 years of age. Currently, our focus is on toddlers aged 19 months to 3 years.
Each study is entirely separate; parents can participate in just one study or in as many as they like as their child gets older.
What is our research about?
We study cognitive development in infants and toddlers and focus on three main questions:
- Some of our studies focus on what children know about the displacements and interactions of physical objects.
- For example, we ask whether infants understand that an object cannot change into a different object when briefly hidden behind a screen.
- Other studies focus on what children know about the mental states and actions of agents such as people or animated puppets.
- For example, we ask whether infants and toddlers realize that an agent can have a false belief about an object’s location and search for it in the wrong place.
- Yet other studies focus on what children know about interactions within and between social groups.
- For example, we ask whether infants and toddlers expect individuals from the same social group to help each other.
What do we measure?
Our studies (whether in-person or online) are based on the idea that infants typically look longer at events they view as unexpected (e.g., a ball that remains suspended when released in midair) than at events they view as expected (e.g., a ball that falls when released in midair). By comparing how long children look at different events, we can figure out what they expect to happen in different situations.
How long is a study?
An online study session usually takes about about 30 minutes.
Is there compensation for participating?
Yes! We offer $10 for participating in a study.
How can my child and I participate?
To participate in one of our studies, please contact us by e-mail at infantlab@illinois.edu. One of our lab’s research staff will get in touch with you to schedule an appointment.
In-Person and Online Studies
Our studies are simple and fun, most children really enjoy them!
In-person studies
As of Summer 2026, we have completed our in-person sessions!
Online studies
We conduct online studies that parents can participate in from home via Zoom.
- Internet: All you need is a stable internet connection, a device with a webcam, and speakers for sound – sorry, no smartphones or tablets, our online studies just don’t work well with their settings.
- Compensation: We offer a $10 Amazon gift card for participation.
