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Developmental review : DR
Sep, 2024;73

Environmental contributions to cognitive development: The role of cognitive stimulation.

Divyangana Rakesh, Katie A McLaughlin, Margaret Sheridan, Kathryn L Humphreys, Maya L Rosen
Author Information
  1. Divyangana Rakesh: Neuroimaging Department, Institute of Psychology, Psychiatry & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK.
  2. Katie A McLaughlin: Department of Psychology, Harvard University, Cambridge MA USA.
  3. Margaret Sheridan: University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, Department of Psychology, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
  4. Kathryn L Humphreys: Vanderbilt University, Psychology and Human Development, Nashville, TN, USA.
  5. Maya L Rosen: Program in Neuroscience, Smith College, Northampton, MA, USA.
PMID: 39830601 DOI: 10.1016/j.dr.2024.101135

Abstract

Early environmental experiences influence children's cognitive and neural development. In particular, cognitive stimulation, defined as environmental inputs that engage the senses and provide learning opportunities for children, fosters acquisition of knowledge across various cognitive domains. Low levels of cognitive stimulation in early life may restrict learning opportunities, contributing to lasting consequences for neural development and later academic and occupational achievement. This review delves into the role of cognitive stimulation in neural development and related cognitive performance, available tools for measuring cognitive stimulation in various settings, and offers insights into future research directions. In addition, variability in cognitive stimulation, often linked to differences in socioeconomic status, may create disparities in children's access to enriching experiences that provide the foundation for learning. We therefore briefly review the role of socioeconomic status in cognitive stimulation and cognitive development. We also leverage evidence from intervention studies to illustrate the importance of cognitive stimulation for children's outcomes. Investigating the influence of cognitive stimulation on children's brain and behavior development is crucial for developing effective intervention strategies to foster the healthy development of all children and unlocking their full potential.

Keywords

Brain development Childhood and adolescence Cognitive development Cognitive stimulation Environment

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Grants

  1. R00 HD099203/NICHD NIH HHS
  2. R37 MH119194/NIMH NIH HHS
  3. R56 MH119194/NIMH NIH HHS
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