Family-based training program improves brain function, cognition, and behavior in lower socioeconomic status...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Developmental Psychology
• Education

Background:

• Selective attention is crucial for child development and learning.
• Neuroplasticity research informs interventions targeting cognitive skills.
• Parenting plays a central role in early childhood development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and assess a family-based training program to enhance selective attention in preschoolers.
• To investigate the program's effects on children's brain function, cognition, and behavior.
• To examine the impact of the intervention on parents.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving 141 low-income preschoolers in a Head Start program.
• Participants were assigned to the training program, Head Start alone, or an active control group.
• Electrophysiological measures, cognitive tests, and parent-reported behaviors were used for assessment.

Main Results:

• Children in the training program showed significant improvements in selective attention-related brain function compared to controls.
• Cognitive measures and parent-reported behaviors also favored the treatment group.
• Positive changes were observed in parents participating in the program.

Conclusions:

• The family-based training program effectively enhances selective attention in at-risk preschoolers.
• The intervention demonstrates positive effects on children's cognitive and behavioral outcomes.
• Evidence-based programs targeting at-risk families show promise for broader implementation.