Where Do Young Minds Wander?

- Children ages 5-10
- Native English Speaker
- Reside in the U.S.

This study will take place on a video call, live with a researcher! Clicking on the “Schedule a time to participate” button will send you to an online calendar where you can select a date and time that works for you.

Your child will complete a computer task where they will see a series of numbers on the screen and press buttons in response. Throughout this task, they will occasionally be asked to share what they are thinking about. After the task, we may ask them to describe their thoughts in more detail. If time allows, children will complete up to 4 brief surveys about their emotions and daily behaviors. During the session and when convenient, one parent or caregiver will complete 3 questionnaires about family demographics and their child's emotions and behaviors.

We are trying to understand how mind wandering changes across childhood (such as thinking about a friend they just met or mentally preparing for the first day of school). Research suggests that the mind's ability to imagine what's possible is linked to positive behaviors and emotional well-being. Yet, we know little about how this changes across childhood. This study will help us understand how often children's minds wander, where their thoughts tend to go, and how this connects to their feelings.

About 2 hours (possibly less!), depending on your child’s pace and the need for breaks.

Your child will receive $20 for your participation in the form of a Visa e-gift card. You will be paid within one week after participation, even if your child decides to withdraw early.

Conditions: Child needs to be within the specified age range, visible for the entire video call, and cannot have participated previously.