Brain Training for Young Children
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a smartphone-based program designed to help young children develop important thinking skills known as Executive Function (EF). It explores how parents can use this program to support their child's cognitive growth. Participants will be divided into two groups: one will try the "Mind Movers" intervention (an Executive Function Intervention), and the other will serve as a control group. The trial seeks children aged 2 to 5 years, whose parents or guardians can read and understand English, and who do not have physical disabilities or severe developmental issues. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity for parents to contribute to innovative research that could enhance their child's cognitive development.
Do I need to stop my child's current medications for the trial?
The trial information does not specify whether participants need to stop taking current medications.
What prior data suggests that this cognitive intervention is safe for young children?
Research shows that programs designed to improve thinking skills, such as planning and memory, are generally safe for young children. These programs typically enhance these skills without causing major issues.
The specific program under testing, the Mind Movers Intervention, has not demonstrated harm. While the study lacks detailed safety information, its design as a smartphone app for home use suggests a low-risk intention. Similar programs used in schools have also shown positive results with minimal risks.
Overall, these programs are well-received by children and aim to enhance their thinking skills in a supportive manner.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the Executive Function Intervention, specifically the Mind Movers program, because it focuses on enhancing brain function in young children through cognitive exercises. Unlike traditional methods that often rely on medication or behavioral therapy, this approach aims to directly stimulate brain development and improve cognitive skills through interactive activities. This innovative method could offer a non-invasive, engaging way to boost mental processes like attention, memory, and problem-solving, potentially leading to long-term cognitive benefits without the side effects associated with medication.
What evidence suggests that this intervention is effective for developing Executive Function skills in young children?
Research has shown that when parents lead activities, it can improve young children's thinking skills, such as memory, attention, and problem-solving, in those aged 2 to 5. Studies also find that mindfulness programs in schools enhance these skills, though the improvements are usually small. Activities involving learning through movement have boosted these skills in preschoolers. Additionally, physical activity programs have positively affected young children's thinking abilities. Overall, this evidence suggests that the Mind Movers Intervention, which participants in this trial may receive, could enhance cognitive skills in young children.46789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Stephanie M. Carlson, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of Minnesota
Blair Hammond, MD
Principal Investigator
Mount Sinai General Pediatrics
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for caregivers of children aged 2-5 years who are interested in a brain training program to develop their child's Executive Function (EF) skills. Participants must understand English. Children with severe developmental delays, disorders, or physical disabilities affecting vision, hearing, or mobility cannot participate.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Intervention
Parents engage in a smartphone-based training regimen with their children, including non-computerized play activities and child-facing EF video games.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for the effectiveness of the intervention through various assessments and questionnaires.
Delayed Post-test
A delayed post-test is conducted to assess the long-term impact of the intervention.
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Executive Function Intervention
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Koronis Biomedical Technologies
Lead Sponsor
Mount Sinai General Pediatrics Faculty Practice
Collaborator
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Collaborator
University of Minnesota
Collaborator