Child Development Research Paper Topic Ideas

Have you been assigned to write a term paper for your college child development class? Are you needing ideas? Do you want a research topic that is not too boring? Below are a few research topic suggestions for a child development paper.

Effects of Video Games on Children

This paper can cover the various positive and negative effects that playing video games may have on children. Some negative issues include obesity, lack of social interaction, and exposure to violence. Some positive effects of video games are learning to follow directions, building cognitive thinking skills, and improving hand/eye coordination.

One source to consider is Glued to Games: How Video Games Draw Us In and Hold Us Spellbound by Richard Ryan. In addition to other books and articles, contact a mental health professional. Ask him/her for a quote on the impact of video games on child development. Also, call a school counselor or local psychologist. You might even ask a pediatrician or a neurologist for an expert quote.

Benefits of Hippotherapy on Child Development

This topic will discuss therapy for children with special needs such as autism, cerebral palsy, and attachment disorders. Hippotherapy involves horses and horseback riding. One source to start with is the American Hippotherapy Association. Click here to visit the website.

There are several books on this topic such as Special Needs, Special Horses: A Guide to the Benefits of Therapeutic Riding by J. Warren Evans. Local experts to contact might be a child psychologist, social worker or even a special education teacher.

Benefits of Music Education on Early Childhood Development

A third idea discusses how music can impact early childhood development. Start by contacting a local early childhood music teacher for advice and a quote. You can find one through Kindermusik or Music Together. If you know a speech therapist or occupational therapist, ask him/her for an expert quote as well.

There are numerous benefits of early music education such as speech and cognitive development. Read this article here for more details.

Effects of Divorce on Child Development

You will find numerous articles, video clips and books discussing the impact of divorce on child development. Please note that you will find different opinions and theories on this somewhat controversial topic. One excellent resource to start with is DivorceCare for Kids here. A local psychotherapist, counselor, or school social worker might be able to provide you with an expert quote.

Effects of Poor Nutrition in Toddlers

A fifth topic is to discuss the consequence of a poor diet on child development. A school or hospital nutritionist might provide you with a quote. One book to read is The Brain Diet: The Connection Between Nutrition, Mental Health, and Intelligence by Alan Logan. You might also consult a pediatrician, or even a WIC counselor for more resources.

These are just five research paper ideas for a child development class. If you are still stumped for a topic, browse articles in research magazines in your library. Happy Writing!