Neurodevelopment from infancy to early childhood
Neurodevelopment from infancy to early childhood
Neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism, ADHD, developmental coordination disorder and intellectual disability, are relatively common. This dissertation of Selena Dirkse examined early signs of neurodevelopmental disorders. We studied children who, as babies, were a good reflection of the general population.
We found that it was difficult to predict developmental problems at a young age. A developmental assessment for babies could only partly identify which children were at risk of developmental delay at age 4 to 5. However, this assessment did show that babies who developed typically were also likely to develop typically at age 4 to 5. We also found a link between infant motor development and cognitive development at age 4 to 5.
The results also showed that more than one-third of children had sensory processing difficulties, for example with sounds or smells. This suggests that sensory processing difficulties also occur in children without a diagnosed neurodevelopmental disorder. Children who often missed, sought, avoided or were sensitive to sensory input were more likely to show characteristics related to neurodevelopmental disorders.
Another important finding was that children followed different developmental pathways. Development varied between children, but also within the same child over time.
These findings highlight the importance of monitoring children’s development from an early age, including children without known risk factors. They also show the need for more research into reliable tools that can help to identify developmental difficulties earlier. Earlier identification may help to improve children’s development and well-being.