P-378 - Effect of parental education on child cognitive function in pakistan

Abstract

Objectives The primary objective of this study was to assess the impact of parental education on child cognition in Pakistan. Design This was a prospective observational study conducted in 2 governments and 2 low class private public schools in a small district of Pakistan. Study was approved by the head teachers of schools. Method Two hundred children (90 male, 110 female), age 7–12 years class 3, 4 and 5 were assessed using McCarthy scale of child cognition. The educational status of parents was recorded. Each child underwent 5 verbal and linguistic tests, Mathematical ability by 3 tests, Reasoning in conversation on a scale of 1–7. Memory and Gross movements were also assessed as per scale. One way ANOVA test was applied using SPSS 18. Results Parental data revealed uneducated 13.5%, up to primary education 9.5%, up to metric (O level) 35%, up to FA/FSc (A level) 13%, up to BA/BSc or equivalent 13%, masters levels (MA/MSc) and above16%. Significant enhancement in 4 out of 5 skills including linguistic skills, mathematical ability, memory and gross fine movements were observed with increasing parental education (p Conclusion Improved parental education demonstrated significant improvement in child cognitive function. There is a need for higher level of education and literacy in Pakistan for better future of children.