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What we're learning

Discoveries from our research community — findings that reshape how we understand infant development.

Dr. Natalie Brito
Featured · Recent findings

Bilingual brain development

Dr. Brito discusses new insights from our home language study

Our latest research reveals how infants in multilingual households develop distinct neural pathways for processing different languages — and why this matters for understanding cognitive flexibility in early development.

Recent findings

Key discoveries from our ongoing research with families across New York City.

  • Home language environments predict vocabulary growth

    Infants in bilingual homes show unique patterns of neural processing that correlate with vocabulary development in both languages.

  • Neighborhood resources shape parent-child interactions

    Access to community resources and green spaces correlates with increased quality time in parent-infant interactions.

  • Cultural practices influence social development

    Family cultural traditions provide structured opportunities for infants to develop social cognition and emotional regulation.

Our impact

The Brito Lab community is making developmental science more inclusive and representative.

  • 850+
    Families participated
  • 12
    Active studies
  • 45+
    Publications
  • 5
    Languages supported

Research that represents

  • 65%

    of participating families identify as low-income or immigrant households

  • 72%

    of families speak a language other than English at home

  • 92%

    of families report feeling respected and valued as research partners

Want to learn more about our active studies? Explore current research opportunities and see how your family can contribute to science.

Help us discover more

Every family who participates helps us answer questions that matter for all children.

Participate