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Tablet computer-based cognitive training for visuomotor integration in children with developmental delay: a pilot
Jee Hyun Suh1, Soo Jeong Han2, Sun Ah Choi3
1Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, College of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Republic of Korea. jeehyun.suh1@gmail.com.
Insights
Tablet computer cognitive training significantly improved visuomotor integration (VMI) and fine motor skills in children with developmental delay (DD). The training did not increase digital media addiction, suggesting a safe, home-based intervention for children with DD.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Pediatrics
- Cognitive Rehabilitation
- Digital Therapeutics
Background:
- Impaired visuomotor integration (VMI) is a common challenge for children with developmental delay (DD).
- Existing interventions for VMI in DD populations require evaluation for efficacy and safety.
- Tablet-based cognitive training presents a novel approach for VMI enhancement in children with DD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the impact of a 12-week tablet computer-based cognitive training program on VMI in children with DD.
- To evaluate the effects of this training on fine motor skills, daily living activities, and digital media addiction.
- To determine the feasibility and safety of home-based tablet cognitive training for children with DD.
Main Methods:
- A pilot study involving children aged 4 to under 18 years diagnosed with DD.
- Participants completed a 12-week daily 30-minute tablet-based cognitive training program (Mind Rx Kids).
- Visuomotor integration was assessed using the Beery-Buktenica Developmental Test of Visual-Motor Integration (VMI-6); secondary outcomes included QUEST, WeeFIM, CARS, ARS, and smartphone addiction scales.
Main Results:
- Significant improvements were observed in VMI-6 raw scores, standard scores, percentile scores, and equivalent age.
- The training program led to significant enhancements in upper extremity skills (QUEST) and functional independence (WeeFIM).
- While trends suggested improvements in autism, ADHD, and smartphone addiction scores, these did not reach statistical significance.
Conclusions:
- Tablet computer-based cognitive training effectively improves VMI, fine motor skills, and daily living activities in children with DD.
- The intervention demonstrated no increase in digital media addiction, supporting its safety for home use.
- This approach offers a promising, accessible, and safe therapeutic option for children with developmental delays.
Background:
Impaired visuomotor integration (VMI) is commonly observed in children with developmental delay (DD). This pilot study aimed to evaluate the effects of tablet computer-based cognitive training on the VMI in children with DD.
Methods:
This study included children aged 4 to under 18 years diagnosed with DD. The children participated in a 12-week tablet computer-based visual-spatial and visuomotor training program. They were administered the Mind Rx Kids Program (Brain Academy, Seoul, South Korea). The participants underwent daily 30-min tablet computer-based training for 12 weeks. The primary visuomotor function was measured using the Beery-Buktenica Developmental Test of Visual-Motor Integration, 6th Edition (VMI-6). For secondary outcomes, measurements were taken before and after 12-week treatment using the Quality of Upper Extremity Skills Test (QUEST), Functional Independence Measure for Children (WeeFIM), Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS), Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder Rating Scale (ARS), and Child Smartphone Addiction Observer Scale. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to compare the pre- and post-treatment outcomes.
Results:
Ten children with DD participated in this study. The results of the 12-week tablet computer-based cognitive training showed significant improvements in the raw score, standard score, percentile score, and equivalent age of the Beery VMI-6. Additionally, there were significant improvements in QUEST and WeeFIM scores. Although there were improvements in the CARS, ARS, and smartphone addiction observer scale, these were not statistically significant.
Conclusion:
This pilot study confirmed that applying tablet computer-based cognitive training to children with DD not only improves VMI, but also enhances fine motor skills and activities of daily living. Furthermore, the results of this study indicate that tablet computer-based cognitive training does not increase digital media addiction. Therefore, children with DD can engage in tablet computer-based cognitive training at home without concerns about digital media addiction.
