Developmental trends in early childhood and their predictors from an Indian birth cohort

Abstract Background Early childhood developmental pattern analyses not only project future cognition potential, but also identify potential risks for possible intervention. The current study evaluates trends in the first 3 years of life and their predictors a low middle income country setting. Methods Trends early development at 6, 15, 24 36 months age were explored longitudinal community-based birth cohort an urban slum Vellore, South India. Development was assessed using Bayley Scales Infant Toddler Development-III (BSID-III). Results enrolled 251 children with 94, 91, 91 87% follow-up respectively. Child domains cognition, language, motor social skills showed significant decline scores between 6 age. Higher socioeconomic position (SEP) nurturing home environment contributed to increase by 1.9 0.9 units However, stunting caused 1.7 units. maternal higher SEP, caregiver responsivity positively language change over time, while depression negatively. An enriching environment, growth parameters blood iron status had positive association skills. Conclusions A triple intervention plan enhance nurturance, nutrient supplementation, education well-being might prevent child high risk settings.