Neurocognitive exercise program improves selective attention in children aged between 7-13 years: a pilot study

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to test the effect of the neurocognitive exercise program (NEP) on the selective attention of typically developing children. Methods: Twenty-eight typically developing children between the ages of 7 and 13 years, referred by their parents to improve their attention level, were included in this study. Children received 10 sessions (60 min/day, 1 day/week) of the NEP. The selective attention of children was tested before and after the NEP with the d2 Test of Attention. Results: Comparison of outcome measures revealed a significant decrease in the percentage of inattention and impulsivity scores and total errors after the NEP (p<0.05). The significant increase was observed in processing speed (p<0.05). According to normative data, the number of poor performers decreased from 17 to 9 in inattention, and from 23 to 13 in impulsivity. Conclusion: The NEP seems to be a promising training modality for improving selective attention in typically developing children. Randomized controlled studies are needed to replicate the effects of the program.