Exploring how early language experiences affect children's brain development and learning.

Administrative Supplement for Continuity of Biomedical and Behavioral Research Among First-Time Recipients of NIH Research Project Grant Awards

NIH-funded research Univ of Maryland, College Park · NIH-11082861

This study looks at how the language kids hear when they're young affects their thinking and talking skills, especially considering how their family's money situation might play a role, and it aims to find ways to help all children do better in school.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniv of Maryland, College Park NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (College Park, United States)
Project IDNIH-11082861 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of children's early language input on their cognitive and linguistic development, particularly focusing on how socioeconomic status influences these outcomes. By examining the environmental and neurodevelopmental mechanisms involved, the study aims to identify effective interventions to close achievement gaps in children. It employs a combination of real-world auditory language exposure assessments and advanced brain imaging techniques to understand how different aspects of language experience shape brain development and school readiness skills in preschool-aged children.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation are preschool-aged children between 3 to 5 years old, particularly those from varying socioeconomic backgrounds.

Not a fit: Children outside the age range of 3 to 5 years or those not exposed to diverse language environments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to targeted interventions that improve language skills and cognitive development in children from disadvantaged backgrounds.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the relationship between early language exposure and cognitive development, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

College Park, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.