Caregiver-reported social foundations and cognitive regulation in toddlers with Down syndrome.

INTRODUCTION

Down syndrome (DS) is associated with variable social developmental outcomes. Neurocognitive areas of vulnerability in DS, like executive function (EF), are a viable starting point for investigation into potential sources of individual differences in social development in children with DS.

METHODS

The present study investigated the association between early caregiver reported EF and social foundational skills in 105 young children with DS (M = 20.56 months, SD = 1.55). Caregivers completed the Early Executive Functions Questionnaire (EEFQ) and the Communication and Symbolic Behavior Scales Developmental Profile, Infant-Toddler Checklist (CSBS).

RESULTS

Substantial inter-individual variability was observed among toddlers with DS along foundational social and EF dimensions. EEFQ Inhibitory control ratings were associated with all three CSBS domain scores, and Flexibility and Working Memory were associated with the Social and Symbolic domains, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Implications for intervention and future research on regulatory vulnerabilities and social foundations in DS are discussed.