The Batman Effect

Developmental researchers at the University of Minnesota found that pretend play can help your child preserve through frustrations and difficulties. In a recent experiment, they had children ages 4-6 dress up as a fictional character such as Batman. They then had the child complete a challenging task.

Children who were encouraged to think and dress like their characters were better at keeping calm and continuing to try the challenging task then peers who were not dressed up as fictional characters. This “Batman Effect” was particularly strong for the youngest kids.

Therefore, when your child encounters difficulties in learning or STEM, having a lab coat and googles, as well as encouraging your child to “think like a scientist” might help them perservere through academic challenges. Or, recycle an old Halloween costume. That might work too!