Study of Cognitive Changes in Children Ages 7 to 10 Observing Behavior and Brain Imaging Over Time

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating cognitive variability in children aged 7 to 10 at their first assessment. This observational study aims to understand how cognitive differences vary between individuals, explore the brain, psychological, and environmental factors influencing these differences, and examine the long-term effects and outcomes related to cognitive variability. The study uses advanced methods including experience sampling, longitudinal designs, and deep phenotyping to answer these questions. Participants may take part in either a behavioural or a behavioural with imaging arm. The behavioural arm includes children aged 7 to 10, while the imaging arm is for children aged 8 to 10 at the first assessment. The imaging arm involves MRI scans such as MP-RAGE, diffusion weighted imaging, and functional MRI during cognitive tasks. Assessments are done at baseline and followed up two years later for imaging, with cognitive task reaction times and questionnaire scores tracked through an average of three years. During the study, children will complete various cognitive tasks measuring reaction times in vocabulary, working memory, speed, fluid reasoning, and exploration. Mood and sleep scores are also tracked using smiley sliders. Imaging participants will undergo baseline and follow-up MRI scans with naturalistic viewing and reasoning tasks. Parents will provide questionnaire data and reaction times on cognitive tasks. Researchers will assess cognitive performance, brain activity, psychological traits, and environmental factors to understand cognitive variability and its outcomes over time.

COgnitive Dynamics in Early Childhood