My research interests are in the areas of cognitive and social development, with a primary research interest in the development of young children's memory. Using both script-based stories and actual script re-enactments, I have examined how atypical or unusual actions are remembered by children and adults. I am also interested in how the emotional content of information affects children's memory for information. My recent research has also examined how children's stereotypes (e.g., about the elderly) affect children's memory and impressions of individuals.
A second research interest is in bilingual language development in young children. Current projects have included bilingual children's use of word-learning constraints, the development of metalinguistic awareness in bilingual children, and an examination of the parents'' role in children's acquisition of a second language. This research, along with other projects, has been funded by the Spencer Foundation, the National Science Foundation, and the U.S. Department of Education.
