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Updated: Dec 16, 2025
Measuring the Functional Abilities of Children Aged 3-6 Years Old with Observational Methods and Computer Tools
Published on: June 20, 2020
Measuring the Functional Abilities of Children Aged 3-6 Years Old with Observational Methods and Computer Tools
María Consuelo Sáiz Manzanares1, Raúl Marticorena Sánchez2, Álvar Arnaiz González2
1Departamento de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Burgos; mcsmanzanares@ubu.es.
Insights
This study introduces eEarlyCare, a computer application for assessing functional abilities in young children (0-6 years) with intellectual disabilities. It aids early intervention by analyzing observations and comparing results to developmental norms.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Psychology
- Pediatric Rehabilitation
- Assistive Technology
Background:
- Assessing functional abilities in early childhood is crucial for intervention in developmental difficulties.
- Limited research exists on automated tools for recording and interpreting initial assessments in early childhood.
- Intellectual disabilities in young children necessitate tailored interventions based on functional development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a protocol for examining functional abilities in early childhood using an automated tool.
- To evaluate the utility of the eEarlyCare computer application for analyzing observations in children aged 3-6 with intellectual disabilities.
- To explore the relationship between intellectual disability types and functional development for guiding early intervention.
Main Methods:
- A protocol utilizing the eEarlyCare computer application for systematic observations in natural environments.
- Trained early intervention professionals record and input data on 114 behaviors across 11 functional areas.
- Clustering techniques are applied to analyze the correlation between intellectual disability types and functional development.
Main Results:
- The eEarlyCare application facilitates efficient recording, analysis, and interpretation of functional abilities.
- Software displays observed abilities against normal developmental parameters, aiding decision-making for intervention programs.
- Identified relationships between intellectual disability types and functional development provide guidance for professionals.
Conclusions:
- The eEarlyCare protocol offers an efficient, resource-effective method for assessing functional abilities in early childhood.
- Automated analysis supports informed decision-making for personalized early intervention strategies.
- The tool enhances the systematic evaluation of children with intellectual disabilities, improving intervention planning.
Abstract:
The analysis of functional abilities and their development in early childhood (0-6 years old) are fundamental aspects among young children with certain types of developmental difficulties that can facilitate prevention, through programmed interventions adapted to the needs of each user (student or patient). There are, however, few investigations to date, that have analyzed the use of automated tools for recording and interpreting the results of the initial assessment. Here, a protocol is presented to examine the functional abilities in early childhood in young children, aged between 3-6 years old, with intellectual disabilities, but the protocol can also be used for ages 0 to 6 years. The protocol makes use of a computer application, eEarlyCare, that facilitates the interpretation of the results of systematic observations, which are recorded in natural environments by professionals trained in early intervention. The software can be used to analyze 11 functional areas (Food Autonomy, Personal Care and Hygiene, Dressing and Undressing Independently, Sphincter Control, Functional Mobility, Communication and Language, Daily Life Routines, Adaptive Behavior and Attention) and a total of 114 different behaviors. Its use facilitates the analysis of the observed abilities and greatly assists early intervention. Compared to other observational methods, it allows a more efficient use of personal and material resources. The use of the computer application facilitates the recording of the observation results, which helps with organization and reflection on the observations. The software displays the observation results on-screen compared to normal developmental parameters. This information can be referred to for decision-making about the most suitable intervention program for each user (student or patient). Likewise, clustering techniques are applied to analyze the relation between the type of intellectual disabilities and functional development identified with the software, a relation that is intended to serve as a guide for early-care professional intervention.
