Published On: 24 May, 2024 11:14 AM | Updated On: 23 Jan, 2025 4:30 PM

Boosting Executive Function in Preschoolers with Congenital Heart Disease through a Stimulating Home Environment

The development of executive function (EF) in preschool children, particularly those with congenital heart disease (CHD), depends on various factors. Recent research sheds light on the significant role of a cognitively stimulating home environment in nurturing these essential cognitive abilities.

A study examined the factors influencing executive function (EF) in preschool children with congenital heart disease (CHD) and their peers. Parents of 51 children with CHD and 124 controls, aged 4-6, completed the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function and the Cognitively Stimulating Parenting Scale. The research found no significant impact of CHD presence, age, sex, or socio-economic status on EF scores. However, lower gestational age was linked to higher scores on measures of inhibitory self-control and flexibility. Notably, a cognitively stimulating home environment significantly predicted better EF in children with CHD but not in controls. Clinical and surgical factors, including CHD type and brain injury ratings, did not significantly affect EF scores. The findings suggest that supporting parents in creating a stimulating home environment can enhance EF in children with CHD, emphasizing the importance of considering home and parenting environments in intervention studies.

In conclusion, while medical care remains crucial, a supportive and stimulating home environment is essential in the cognitive development of preschoolers with CHD. 

Chew ATM, Bonthrone AF, Alford A, et al. Executive Function in Preschool Children with Congenital Heart Disease and Controls: The Role of a Cognitively Stimulating Home Environment. The Journal of Pediatrics. 2024;267. DOI:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpeds.2023.113897

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