Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 28, 2026
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Measuring the Functional Abilities of Children Aged 3-6 Years Old with Observational Methods and Computer Tools
Published on: June 20, 2020
Executive function performance on the children's kitchen task assessment with children with sickle cell disease and
Christine Berg1, Dorothy Farrar Edwards, Allison King
1Department of Occupational Therapy and Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63108, USA. cberg@wustl.edu
Summary
Children with sickle cell disease (SCD) exhibit lower executive function compared to healthy peers. This study highlights the need for comprehensive assessments, including neurocognitive and performance tests, to support these children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Hematology
- Neuropsychology
- Child Development
Background:
- Sickle cell disease (SCD) can impact cognitive development.
- Executive function is crucial for daily activities and academic success in children.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare executive function in children with SCD versus matched controls.
- To evaluate various neurocognitive and performance-based measures of executive function.
Main Methods:
- 22 children with SCD and 22 matched controls (aged 8-12) participated.
- Utilized the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF), Delis-Kaplan Executive Function System (D-KEFS), and Children's Kitchen Task Assessment (CKTA).
- Parent and teacher rating scales were employed.
Main Results:
- Children with SCD scored significantly lower on Digit Span Forward, several D-KEFS tasks, and CKTA subscales.
- Lower scores were observed in the BRIEF's Metacognitive Index (MI) and Global Executive Composite (GEC).
Conclusions:
- Children with SCD demonstrate impaired executive function.
- Recommends a multi-faceted assessment approach combining neurocognitive, performance, and observational data.
- Emphasizes the importance of tailored educational support for children with SCD facing challenges like frequent hospitalizations and school absences.
