'Marshmallows test' may help predict kids' success in life

Washington, April 22 (ANI): A new study into how successful kids will be in their life was conducted with marshmallows being used to test the limit of their temptation.

Researchers find that tempting children with one marshmallow now, or two marshmallows later might determine which kids will be successful in life based on their choice.

It's called "the marshmallow test" and it was originally conducted more than 40 years ago.

Researchers consistently find that the group of kids who could force themselves to wait tend to have better lives and relationships, and they also averaged 210 points higher on their SATs than the kids who could not hold off.

"If you can be focused on your goal and you can have self control to achieve that goal you can achieve a lot more in life," CBS News quoted author Ellen Galinsky as saying.

Focus and self-control are two of the essential life skills included in Galinsky's new book, "Mind in the Making". They're simple ideas, but difficult to master in a wired society where multi-tasking is valued and distractions are commonplace.

"If you really need to do something, you have something hard to work on - then you need to find a way to pay attention," Galinsky said.

Galinsky suggests a game like "reverse Simon Says", which forces kids to focus.

Also, balance simple games with high-tech ones. Galinsky says kids can learn with the same passion they show playing.

"Computers appeal to children in a very different way. They actually appeal to children in a way that they learn best. They're active learners, they're not passive," Galinsky added. (ANI)