Improving early childhood developmental screening for children in low-income families.

Advancing Equity in Early Childhood Developmental Screening Through Item Response Theory and User-Centered Design

['FUNDING_CAREER'] · SEATTLE CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL · NIH-10927407

This study is working on a new computer tool to help quickly check how young children are developing, especially for families with limited resources, so that any delays can be spotted early and kids can get the support they need to thrive.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_CAREER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorSEATTLE CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SEATTLE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10927407 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research aims to enhance developmental screening for young children, particularly those from low-income backgrounds, by creating a computer adaptive assessment tool. The tool will be designed with input from parents, clinicians, and community health workers to ensure it is culturally and contextually relevant. By addressing barriers such as limited provider time and access to services, the project seeks to improve early identification of developmental delays in children. This approach is expected to facilitate timely interventions that can positively impact children's long-term health and development.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are young children, particularly those from low-income families and communities of color, who may be at risk for developmental delays.

Not a fit: Children who are not at risk for developmental delays or those who do not fall within the targeted demographic may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better early identification of developmental delays in children, ultimately improving their health and educational outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that culturally tailored screening tools can improve identification and intervention for developmental delays in underserved populations.

Where this research is happening

SEATTLE, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.