The Intellectual Lives of Children

“Combining insight, scientific acumen, and exquisite narrative, The Intellectual Lives of Children allows readers to peer into the minds of infants, toddlers, and preschoolers as they explore and learn in everyday moments, emphasizing what constitutes real learning.”—Kathy Hirsh-Pasek, Science

“Weaving together personal observations and experiences, findings from psychological experiments, and powerful organizing concepts, Susan Engel has written a remarkable book. Whether you are an educator, parent, or simply a curious reader, you will come to see, hear, and understand children in new ways.”—Howard Gardner, author of Multiple Intelligences

“A fascinating read for parents who wonder, simply, what is my child thinking? Why do they love collecting? Where did that idea come from? A celebration of children’s innovation and sense of wonder.”—Emily Oster, author of Expecting Better

“Who knows what problems our children will need to tackle, but we adults can help them along by asking questions and unlocking possibilities from their earliest days. Susan Engel’s enchanting mix of academic studies and astute observations of children figuring out how their world works makes for an engrossing, illuminating read. Any parent, teacher—anyone who loves watching children question, explore, and wonder—will want to read this guide to stoking children’s ‘intellectual fires.’”—Ann Friedman, Founder, Planet Word