– According to a small population-based, longitudinal study, children raised in poverty show brain development deficits and score worse in test scores in comparison to their peers living in better environments. However, this effect seems to be limited to the poorest households: there are significant differences between kids in poverty and “near-poor” kids, but no significant differences between near-poor kids and kids of higher socioeconomic status.

–  The authors of the study suggest that this gap could be reduced by applying some proper measures. Several studies have shown that improved support during the early years, from parents in particular, can have a beneficial impact on a child’s development in the long-term. In their conclusion, the researchers stated that the results of their study “suggest that interventions aimed at improving children’s environments may also alter the link between childhood poverty and deficits in cognition and academic achievement.”

Image: Cebu City, Philippines / ChildUp.com

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