Adan McCormick

10/09/2025

22/04/2025

Research shows a strong link between parents who went through challenging experiences as children — like neglect, abuse, or poverty — and problems that show up later in their family life. These can include children struggling with behaviour, health, school, mental health, or even relationships.

While the statistics show a pattern, they can’t explain why this happens in each case or predict which parents will be able to break the cycle and create a safe, healthy environment for their children. And sometimes, problems still arise in families even when there’s no clear history of hardship in the parents’ past.

Parents who can reflect on their past and understand emotions, intentions, and beliefs — a skill known as mentalisation — are more likely to raise children who feel safe and secure.

It’s about being aware, reflective, and emotionally present—even if your childhood was difficult.

11/02/2025

Hi there, parents! 👋

Are you a parent of a little one aged 1.5–4 years? We’d love for you and your child to join us in a fun and meaningful research project at Queen’s University Belfast!

We’re exploring how parents and toddlers interact, and your participation can help shape the future of early childhood development.

What’s in it for you?
🎲 Enjoy quality playtime with your child (free play, toy clean-up, and puzzles!)
💷 Earn £15 as a thank you for your time
💡 Contribute to research that supports families like yours

📍 Where? School of Psychology, David Keir Building, Malone Road, Belfast, BT9 5BN

Interested? Just scan the QR code to find out more—we’d love to have you on board! ❤️
Feel free to share it! Thank you!

06/12/2024

📚 Why Reading Matters for Your Child’s Development

As a psychologist, I often emphasise the power of reading in nurturing a child’s emotional and cognitive growth. Reading isn’t just a pastime—it’s a powerful tool for development.

🌟 Benefits of Reading for Your Child

🧠 Boosts Cognitive Development: Expands vocabulary, improves language skills, and strengthens focus and memory.
💡 Encourages Emotional Growth: Helps children process emotions and develop empathy through stories and characters.
🤔 Fosters Critical Thinking: Encourages problem-solving, curiosity, and a love for learning.
👨‍👩‍👧 Strengthens Bonds: Shared reading moments build trust and connection between parents and children.

How to Make Reading a Daily Habit

1. 📖 Read Together: Choose books that match their age and interests.
2. ⏱️ Set a Routine: A bedtime story can be a calming way to end the day.
3. 🌈 Be Playful: Use different voices or act out parts of the story to keep it fun.
4. 🛒 Let Them Choose: Give your child the freedom to pick books that excite them.

✨ Reading is a gift that nurtures both mind and heart. Encourage your child to explore the magic of books—it’s a foundation for lifelong learning!

27/09/2024

Painting activities play a significant role in children's psychological development. Through painting, children express emotions, thoughts, and ideas they may not yet have the language skills to convey. This creative process enhances cognitive and emotional growth by encouraging imagination, problem-solving, and emotional regulation. Additionally, painting helps children develop fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination, which are critical for later academic tasks like writing. Choosing colours, shapes, and forms allows them to explore their individuality, fostering self-esteem and a sense of accomplishment.