What does it really mean when ADHD 'runs in the family'? What might this look like in the very earliest years of your baby’s life?
Join Professor John Spencer, Developmental Psychologist at the University of East Anglia, for a relaxed, family-friendly talk exploring how babies build early attention, memory and self-regulation skills - and why these foundations matter for children growing up in families with ADHD.
In this talk, parents will get a behind-the-scenes look at how the team uses playful eye-tracking games, colourful animations, and soft “light-sensor” caps (fNIRS) to gently track how babies’ brains take in information.
The session will explore:
- Why ADHD so often runs in families, and how traits can look different in parents vs. babies
- The emerging science of early attention and visual working memory
- What researchers look for in infancy and toddlerhood when studying later learning and executive function
- How early differences don’t determine a child’s future because brains develop dynamically
- How families can support attention and self-regulation from the very first years
This is a warm, welcoming session where crying, feeding, wriggling, and wandering are expected. You’re equally welcome to attend with your baby or come on your own. Simple crafts, Lego and other quiet activities will be available to keep older siblings entertained, so the whole family can comfortably attend. Come along, bring your questions and discover what science is uncovering about your baby’s amazing, developing brain.
Free, booking essential
For parents and under 2s
Lower Gallery, The Forum
what3words: labs.trip.video
Only adults require a ticket to this event. Babies and little ones are welcome without a ticket.
