#68 - Unlocking the Invisible: Navigating Mental States in Early Childhood with Professor Virginia Tompkins

In this episode of A Dad's Path Podcast, host Will Braunstein sits down with Virginia Tompkins, a professor of psychology at The Ohio State University, to discuss the importance of social cognitive development in early childhood. They discuss the progression of mental states that children can understand over the years and how it's difficult for young children because those mental states are often invisible or unseen. They also touch on the importance of parental involvement in theory of mind development and how asking more questions can help children grow and develop. Finally, they explore the impact of parental stress on children's development, including the importance of self-care for parents and the effects of household stress on children. Highlights of our conversation include: Difficulties with invisible or unseen mental states The relationship between language skills, story comprehension skills, and theory of mind skills Capitalizing on your child's interests to keep them motivated The difference between modeling and teaching Impact of parental or household stress on children's development Parenting as a united front