This spring one of the giants of family research will launch a campaign to connect parents and teachers with all of the research on benefits of quality early learning, and help them use it.

Next month, Family and Work Institute head Ellen Galinsky will kick off “A Mind in the Making,” an ambitious and multifaceted effort that will be the culmination of eight years of work on early childhood learning research, why kids lose interest in learning and what can be done to keep them engaged.

“Too many kids were dropping out of high school, too many are not prepared for college, and there is a disturbing lack of engagement in learning – the fire that burns brightly in babies’ eyes is dimmed in school,” Galinsky wrote in explaining her ideas and goals. “We have focused on content that young children need to learn, but we have paid much less attention to the learning – ultimately the life skills - they need to have.”

The core of the campaign is Galinsky’s soon-to-be released book “Mind in the Making: The Seven Essential Skills Every Child Needs,” which outlines modern skills parents should encourage their children to develop: Focus on control; perspective taking, communicating; making connections; critical thinking; taking on challenges; and pursuing ongoing learning. (April 6, HarperStudio.)

But, the campaign extends far beyond that 352-page book.  The effort includes a congressional launch event, learning modules for early childhood teachers and families, web-based videos for families, a DVD on great experiments in child development research and other efforts.

But, perhaps the most important tool will be lessons Galinsky will offer parents. Instead of telling them they should do something, she will show them steps and exercises they can take to instill those life skills that help children become productive contributing adults.

For example, parents should focus on praising their children’s efforts, not their talents.

“Studies have found that this kind of praise encourages children to challenge themselves,” The Seven Essential Life Skills Every Child Needs. “Life is full of stresses and challenges. Children who are willing to take on challenges (instead of avoiding them) do better in school and life.”

As one of the leading voices in the field of family research, Galinsky is more than qualified to lead this effort. She has written more than 40 books and reports, and currently is president of the Families and Work Institute in New York City. We will check back on this campaign as it unfolds.