Cognitive and behavioural functioning among children with perinatal stroke and the impact of an intervention
Children with perinatal stroke (occurring during pregnancy or within the first month after birth) often experience lifelong cognitive and behavioural difficulties. However, there is very limited research on how these cognitive and behavioural difficulties change with development and on the impact of interventions. We recently identified math as an area of difficulty for children with perinatal stroke and our team has previously demonstrated success in improving math skills in children with other neurodevelopmental difficulties using a targeted math intervention. The goals of the current project are to: 1) provide longitudinal information on cognitive and behavioural development in children with perinatal stroke and 2) test whether a math intervention improves math skills among children with perinatal stroke. Understanding how cognitive and behavioural difficulties change with development will help clinicians identify areas of concern and inform treatment options to improve health outcomes. Improving mathematics skills in children may positively impact many important life outcomes including academic and career success.