Parent Carer Research Network

Type of involvement

Parents and carers with toddlers (aged 12-36 months) are needed to participate in a child observation session at the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan). The study will explore toddler behavior in a playroom setting, both with and without their carer present, to understand attachment to caregivers.

Where the research will take place

The research will take place at UCLan’s Darwin Building in the Child Observation Lab.

About the project (short plain English summary)

This study is part of the psychology courses at UCLan, where second-year students learn about child development and attachment to caregivers. The session involves observing how toddlers interact in an unfamiliar playroom setting both with and without their carer present, and the observations will be used for educational purposes.

Who they are looking for

Parents or carers of toddlers aged between 12-36 months who are willing to participate in a 30-minute observation session.

What they will ask you to do

You and your child will participate in an observation session where your child will play in a room with toys, both with you present and with a student stranger. The observation will last approximately 30 minutes, with a 10-15 minute briefing beforehand and a short debrief afterward. Students will observe your child through a one-way mirror and record their behavior, but the video will only be used for teaching purposes.

What you will be offered for your time

Parking will be arranged if needed. While there is no mention of monetary compensation, your participation supports student education and research.

Available dates and times

The lab sessions will be held during the week of October 7th, 2024, at the following times:

• Monday, October 7th: 11 am-1 pm and 2 pm-4 pm

• Tuesday, October 8th: 11 am-1 pm and 1 pm-3 pm

• Wednesday, October 9th: 9 am-11 am and 11 am-1 pm

• Thursday, October 10th: 9 am-11 am and 11 am-1 pm

• Friday, October 11th: 9 am-11 am(Some sessions are already taken, but a reserve list is available.)

How to take part

If you are interested in participating, please email ChildLab@uclan.ac.uk with the following details:

• Days/times you are availableName of the carer attending on the dayMobile phone number of the carerName and age of the childWhether you require parking (Y/N)

Who to contact for further information

For more information or questions, please contact Jodie or the Child Lab team at ChildLab@uclan.ac.uk.