Article Text
Abstract
Qidza Fouondation CDC reports that 1/6 child has developmental and behavioural problems. Extensive research proves that early detection can improve outcomes and reduce costly interventions ($23K savings per child-Glascoe et al, 1997; WHO, 2007). Yet 52% of paediatricians don’t have time or expertise to screen for developmental issues (American Academy of Paediatrics, 2014). To test whether parents are better screeners of developmental issues, we partnered with 2 paediatric clinics to develop a new model of early child health screening using a mobile app, BabyNoggin.
The app
1. educates parents on simple behavioural milestone-based assessments through step-by-step video and written instructions, that covers language, autism, sensory, motor, and cogitative
2. encourages parents to interact with their baby by performing age-appropriate screenings
3. gives parents actionable activities that they can do to help babies achieve the milestone and enhance bonding.
Among the 1071 app downloads, 80% are first time parents. 77% of parents reported their children’s developmental health is their top concern. After two months using the app, 78% of parents reported increase understanding of developmental milestones. 96% completed at least one developmental screening. With a proper mobile tool, parents will actively participate in their children’s developmental screening.