Join a new clinical study using iPad games and receive up to £20 in Amazon vouchers. Participation is easy and fun, and is open to children between 3 and 8. The study is designed to improve and promote early diagnostics of these conditions. Help us make this process easier and more efficient for other children.*
While the world of business and education has widely embraced modern technologies, the world of neurodevelopmental diagnostics has remained somewhat behind, with most diagnoses relying on old-school methods such as parent and school questionnaires or subjective observational exercises. With the process proving stressful for both parents and children, with parents often challenging their child’s diagnosis or lack of diagnosis, there is a clear need for more development in the area.
The significance of assessment
Neurodevelopmental assessment – particularly those that provide clear, early indicators of particular conditions – serves as vital tools in understanding a child's cognitive, emotional, and social development. Through these evaluations, experts gain a holistic view of a child's strengths and challenges, allowing for a tailored approach that caters to their unique needs. These assessments not only help diagnose conditions such as autism and ADHD but also serve as a compass for guiding families, educators, and healthcare professionals in providing the best possible support.
Today, recent advancements in educational psychology, neurodevelopment and machine learning have given us fresh insights and hold the promise of personalised support. One such pioneering approach is the use of digital biomarkers, which is the focus of groundbreaking clinical trials like the one underway at Brightlobe.
What are biomarkers?
Biomarkers are indicators that provide valuable information about an individual's physiological and psychological state and can signal the presence of certain conditions. In the context of neurodevelopment, these biomarkers hold the key to understanding the underlying mechanisms that influence a child's growth and behaviour. By identifying specific biomarkers associated with conditions, researchers and clinicians can detect early signs, track progress, and predict treatment responses.
A game-changing clinical trial
One clinical trial that uses the potential of biomarkers in research is the new study initiated by Brightlobe, an organisation using game-based diagnostic tools. This trial, currently underway and open to children aged 3 to 8 years old, seeks to identify biomarkers that may signal certain neurodevelopmental conditions.
Participants, both with and without diagnoses, are invited to contribute to this landmark study. This innovative approach not only advances our understanding of conditions like autism and ADHD but also offers a more efficient, engaging and non-invasive method of assessment.
A vision of social inclusion and personalised support
The implications of this trial extend beyond the confines of research. As biomarkers shed light on the underlying mechanisms of neurodevelopmental conditions, they pave the way for better and personalised support for each child. These could range from targeted therapy to adaptive educational strategies, ensuring that every child is nurtured and empowered.
Joining the movement
For families, educators, and advocates invested in the betterment of children's lives, the opportunity to participate in groundbreaking research is a chance to contribute to a future of understanding and support. By engaging with trials like the one at Brightlobe, individuals not only advance the field of neurodevelopment but also provide hope to countless families seeking answers and solutions.
Learn more about Brightlobe’s “BRIGHTEN Study” at: brightlobe.com/science. You can sign up for the study here, and enter SENSG into the promo code.
*The study has been approved for conduct by the National Research Ethics Committee (Reference number: 292577).