Talk, Read, Sing: Early Language Exposure As an Overlooked Social Determinant of Health

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Download the full text: Suskind_2018_Talk, Read, Sing – Early Language Exposure As an Overlooked Social Determinant of Health

Publication year

2017

study description

Commentary.

core topic(s)

Early Literacy , Early Relational Health

Population Characteristics

Medical Providers , Medical Trainees

Exposures, Outcomes, Other

Anticipatory Guidance , Brain/Neurocognitive , Child Development (general) , Clinic-Based Programs and Interventions , Disparity/Adversity , Language and Literacy Development , Medical Training/Education

objectives

To discuss early language exposure as a social determinant of health.

setting

Pediatric primary care.

methods

Topics Discussed: First 1000 days of life as critical for brain development; Socioeconomic related cognitive disparities; Early language exposure and neuroimaging studies; Role of pediatrician to promote adult-child interactions according to AAP; Disparities in parent access and understanding of this guidance; Educating residents to share evidence-based strategies with parents.

measures

Review.

conclusions

There is perhaps nothing more important that a society must do than foster and protect the brain development of our children.”15 By elevating “talk, read, and sing” to the top of the newborn discharge list, future pediatricians will be ensuring that healthy brain development is the standard of care for all children.

limitations

Not discussed.