New research suggests being emotionally available is one of the most effective ways to prepare a child for future success. Photo by Solis Images/Shutterstock

ULM, Germany, Sept. 7 (UPI) -- All it takes is a little caring.

There are enough books and scientific papers on parenting to fill most of the school gymnasiums in America. The task of preparing a child for future success can be daunting. But a new study suggests a little emotional investment goes a long way.


A survey of 27 children, ages four to six, suggests parents can set their children up for long-term success simply by fostering a caring environment -- by being emotionally invested.

Scientists used surveys to measure the emotional bond between parents and their children. Behavioral tasks allowed researchers to test each child's cognitive control and memory. Electrotroencephalography, or EEG, helped scientists gauge impulse control.

The findings suggests a child's cognitive and behavioral growth is benefited by parents who foster a sense of independence in their children while remaining emotionally available.

Scientists detailed their study in the journal Frontiers in Human Neuroscience.

"This study investigated the association between emotional interaction quality and the electrophysiological correlates of executive functions in preschool children for the first time," researcher Henriette Schneider-Hassloff concluded in a news release.