Rahiem Brooks

A Parent Guidance Framework for Supporting Early Brain and Cognitive Development in Underserved Children: Maximizing Impact During the Postnatal Critical Period

This study examines how neuroscience-based interventions help develop language abilities and literacy in children from low SES backgrounds. Studies have found that brain development needs special attention in early childhood because the initial five years are crucial. Children from underserved communities face considerable language deficits upon entering kindergarten because they lack consistent access to language-rich settings at home or in the community. Children who begin school with these early learning gaps often face persistent academic challenges.

The study integrates findings from developmental psychology, neuroscience, and early education through an extensive literature review. Research demonstrates how neuroplasticity influences language learning and cognitive development in early childhood. It also shows that interventions activating neural pathways—such as parent-child interaction and phonological exercises—can improve developmental outcomes for low-SES children.

Technologies like LENA (Language ENvironment Analysis) provide measurable data on daily language interactions and conversational patterns, helping caregivers strengthen their parenting skills. Special emphasis is placed on supporting parents who struggle with literacy through accessible, culturally responsive methods.

Early, family-centered interventions are essential. Research findings suggest that funding early brain development initiatives may reduce future remediation costs. This study advocates for neuroscience-based approaches to expand educational access before formal schooling begins and to promote equity from the earliest stages of development.