When are appointments scheduled?

Do you have weekend appointments available?

Yes! We are usually happy to arrange for appointments on weekends.

Where is the lab located?

In Social Sciences 2, on the UCSC campus.

How do I get to there?

Please see our How to Find Us section, which includes driving directions and a map.

Will my child's data be kept confidential?

Your child's data will be kept completely confidential. Your child's name will never be used in any report of this research. We videotape our studies to allow us to keep track of which objects your child selects, and also to write down any comments made during the study. This videotape is kept completely confidential; your child's name will never be associated with it. Furthermore, unless we have your explicit permission, this videotape will be viewed only by the researchers. The photographs on this web site are used with parents' permission.

Who makes sure that the studies are ethically appropriate?

All studies have been through a rigorous review process by the UCSC's Institutional Review Board (IRB), which consists of a panel of University and community members. This panel carefully evaluates proposed studies involving human participants before they begin (and at least once per year after initial approval) to ensure that the research is ethical.

Can I bring along my other children?

Absolutely! If you bring along other children, another trained research assistant will be happy to look after them during your visit. We ask only that you let us know beforehand, if possible, so that appropriate arrangements can be made.

Will I be with my child at all points during the visit?

Yes. You will be with your child at all times.

How many times will I be asked to bring my child?

Most studies involve a one-time visit, lasting about 30 minutes. However, many families participate in numerous studies, whenever their schedules allow. If you are interested, you may be contacted more than once.

We have changed addresses or phone numbers.

Please give us a call, or send us an email to help us keep our records up-to-date.

Where can I find more details about your studies?

I registered my child several months ago, but have not yet been called to participate. Why?

We recruit from ages 0 to 5 years so that we have a pool of interested families from which to draw. However, most of our studies involve particular age ranges - for example, 23- to 25-month-olds, or 3-year-olds. Your child may not fit into one of the age ranges that we are studying at the moment. If you ever would like information about what ages are currently being studied, feel free to call or email.

I have friends with young children who may be interested. Can I refer them to you?

Absolutely! We very much appreciate all referrals. Please send them to our web site, or give them our contact information.

I have a concern about my child's development. Can you help?

We conduct only basic research in child development, and we do not offer individual evaluations. If you have a particular concern about your child's development, please contact your pediatrician.

Where can I find general information about child development?

I have already been called and/or participated in studies in developmental psychology at UCSC. Do I need to register here too?

If you have participated in prior studies at UCSC, you may already be in our database. If you want to confirm this, please give us a call, send an email, or simply submit the registration form.