Understanding how preschoolers develop early math skills

Research Strategy: Multisystemic Study of Early Mathematics Development

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI-COLUMBIA · NIH-11082485

This study is looking at how preschoolers learn basic math skills, like counting, to see how it can help them get ready for school, and it involves parents and teachers working together to support kids who might struggle with math.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI-COLUMBIA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (COLUMBIA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11082485 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the early development of math skills in preschoolers, focusing on how their understanding of core number concepts like counting can predict their readiness for formal math education. It aims to create multisystemic interventions that involve not just the child, but also their parents and teachers, to support children at risk for math learning difficulties. The study will assess the home environment's influence on children's math development and observe classroom engagement to identify effective strategies for long-term improvement.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are preschool-aged children, particularly those showing early signs of math learning difficulties.

Not a fit: Children who are already performing well in math or do not exhibit any risk factors for math learning difficulties may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to effective interventions that help preschoolers develop strong foundational math skills, reducing the risk of future learning difficulties.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that multisystemic interventions can lead to sustained improvements in learning outcomes for children, suggesting a promising approach for this study.

Where this research is happening

COLUMBIA, 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.