Cognitive Training Using Tablet Computers for Enhancing Visuomotor Integration in Children with Developmental Delay

Children with developmental delay (DD) frequently exhibit impaired visuomotor integration (VMI). The purpose of this pilot study was to assess the impact of tablet computer-based cognitive training on the VMI in children with DD.

The study focused on children aged 4 to under 18 years diagnosed with DD who participated in a 12-week tablet computer-based visual-spatial and visuomotor training program using the Mind Rx Kids Program. Participants engaged in daily 30-minute training sessions over the 12 weeks. The primary measure of visuomotor function was the Beery-Buktenica Developmental Test of Visual-Motor Integration (VMI-6). Secondary outcomes were assessed before and after the treatment using various tools, including 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 utilized to compare pre- and post-treatment results.

A total of 10 children with DD were included in this study and the results of the 12-week tablet computer-based cognitive training showed the following findings:

• Remarkable improvements in the Beery-Buktenica Developmental Test of VMI-6, as evidenced by enhancements in raw scores, standard scores, percentile scores, and equivalent age. 
• Moreover, significant gains were observed in QUEST and WeeFIM.
• While there were improvements noted in CARS, ARS, and the child smartphone addiction observer scale, these changes were not statistically substantial.

The study concluded that tablet computer-based cognitive training for children with DD improves VMI, fine motor skills, and activities of daily living. Additionally, the findings suggest that this type of training does not contribute to an increase in digital media addiction. Consequently, children with DD can safely participate in tablet-based cognitive training at home and do not pose a risk of developing digital media addiction.

Source: Suh JH, Han SJ, Choi SA, Yang H, Park S. Tablet computer-based cognitive training for visuomotor integration in children with developmental delay: a pilot study. BMC Pediatr. 2024 Oct 28;24(1):683. doi: 10.1186/s12887-024-05162-7. PMID: 39465386; PMCID: PMC11520080.