A tablet computer-based cognitive training program for young children with cognitive impairment: A randomized...

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Neurology
• Developmental Psychology
• Educational Technology

Background:

• Cognitive training typically targets older children and adults.
• Young children with cognitive impairment (18–36 months) have limited access to such interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the applicability and efficacy of a tablet computer-based cognitive training program for young children with cognitive impairment.
• To assess cognitive function improvements in toddlers using this novel approach.

Main Methods:

• Thirty-eight children (18–36 months cognitive age) were randomized into an intervention (tablet training) or control (traditional rehabilitation) group.
• Intervention involved 30-minute sessions, twice weekly for 12 weeks.
• Cognitive and functional assessments included BSID II, PEDI, LAP-TAB, ECBQ, and GAS.

Main Results:

• The tablet program was well-tolerated by all children.
• Significant improvements were observed in the intervention group for BSID II Mental Scale, PEDI social function, LAP-TAB (observation and manipulation), and GAS.
• These improvements remained significant after adjusting for pre-treatment scores and cognitive age.

Conclusions:

• Tablet-based cognitive training is a feasible and effective intervention for young children with cognitive impairment.
• The program demonstrated significant cognitive and functional gains in toddlers aged 18–36 months.
• While generally effective regardless of delay severity, severe impairment may correlate with less improvement in self-care skills.