Children Face Research Articles

Access to Education of Syrians under Temporary Protection in the Changing and Developing Turkish Education System: Barriers and Suggestions

The Turkish education system adopts an inclusive approach for individuals from different cultures. However, Syrian children face various barriers such as language barriers, economic difficulties, social cohesion and cultural differences. Language barriers make it difficult for Syrian children, especially those who speak Arabic, to adapt to the Turkish education system. Economic difficulties make it difficult for families to send their children to school, while cultural differences and social cohesion problems make it difficult for children to be socially accepted in schools. This article addresses the issue of access to education for Syrian children under temporary protection in Türkiye. In the article, the general development and change of the Turkish education system is explained and the difficulties faced by Syrians under temporary protection in the education process and the solutions to these difficulties are analysed. These suggestions include the development of language education programs, improvement of legal regulations and policies, reduction of education costs and awareness raising activities to increase social cohesion and cultural sensitivity. It is also emphasised that more comprehensive and sustainable policies should be implemented to support the integration of Syrian children into the Turkish education system. It is considered that the Learning and Adaptation Together Program (LEAP) proposed by us will accelerate the access of Syrians under temporary protection to education and contribute to social cohesion.

Double jeopardy? China’s minority migrant children in comparative perspective

ABSTRACT China has 125 million ethnic minority group members and an increasing number of minority children move to cities for better opportunities. Using data from the 2016 China Migrants Dynamic Survey and drawing on the theories of family migration, push-pull forces, and social capital, we compare migration patterns of minority and Han children in China. Results show minority children have a higher probability of joining migrant parents than Han children. However, this may not necessarily lead to more desirable outcomes. Due to limited urban educational resources and their special needs, many school-age minority migrant children work instead of attending school. They also tend to move to areas with higher minority concentrations, potentially reducing socioeconomic mobility. Compared to Han migrant children, who are already disadvantaged in many ways in urban China, ethnic minority children face additional challenges. This warrants increased attention from scholars and policymakers. While our measurement of ethnic networks has limitations and requires further research, our key conclusions about ethnic minority migrants are robust and well-supported.

Factors affecting school enrolment and attendance for children with disabilities in Bangladesh: Evidence from a cross-sectional survey

In Bangladesh, many disabled children are not attending school. Despite the country’s special policies, laws, and services, most disabled children face a barrier to enrollment in school. To increase the school attendance of children, particularly disabled children, research on barriers to school attendance is essential. It will help to ensure that all children, including those with disabilities, receive an education. This paper will investigate the factors associated with children with disabilities missing school. This study will utilize data from a large sample based on Nationally representative multiple indicator cluster survey 2019 in Bangladesh. The study group included 5024 disabled children ranging in age from 6 to 17 years. To determine the significant covariates for the multivariate analysis, a bivariate analysis was performed. The findings indicate that age of the child, gender, household head sex, education of the household head, area (urban/rural), husband age, whether the husband has more wives, and disability types are all associated with disabled children being absent from school. Using these findings, the government of Bangladesh and other stakeholders should advocate for policies and programs that reduce barriers to education and ensure that all disabled children attend school.

Development and Validation of a "Stress and Coping Assessment Tool Associated with Maintaining Oral Health among Children with Special Health-care Needs".

In our routine pediatric dental practice, many of us encounter parents and caretakers of Children with Special Health Care Needs (CSHCN) who complain about the difficulties they face in daily tooth brushing of their children. Some parents may have to accept defeat as their children face overwhelming medical conditions to cater to; ultimately leading to paradigm shift of oral hygiene leading to increase of dental caries and gingival problems. To develop and validate a comprehensive tool that can help us in assessing parent related stressors and coping factors with regard to maintenance of oral hygiene of their children. Data related to stress and coping factors encountered during maintenance of oral hygiene of their children and their experiences during the child's dental treatment (if any) were collected from parents of CSHCN. Validation and feedback from content evaluation panel experts were done. A comprehensive assessment tool with 45 items (29 stresses related items and 16 coping related items) was developed after validation. We could develop and validate a 'Stress and Coping Assessment Tool associated with maintaining Oral health among Children with Special health care needs' - abbreviated as "SCATOCS" with a hope to benefit and manage oral health care to the referred population.

Outcomes of clubfoot conservative treatment using the Ponseti technique in an academic hospital in Saudi Arabia

Objectives: Congenital talipes equinovarus (CTEV), commonly known as clubfoot, affects 1–4/1000 births, predominantly males. Without intervention, children face mobility limitations and deformities. Conservative treatment, particularly the Ponseti technique, which boasts a success rate exceeding 90%, is favored despite potential complications. Methods: This study aimed to assess the efficacy of the Ponseti technique through a retrospective analysis of idiopathic CTEV cases. Data on pre- and post-treatment Pirani scores were analyzed across variables including age, sex, number of casts, Achilles tenotomy, surgical intervention, and complications. Participants were categorized based on treatment outcomes to identify contributing factors. Results: Among 42 participants (69 feet), 62% were male, presenting at an average age of 9 weeks and receiving an average of 5.26 casts per patient. Pre-treatment Pirani scores averaged 4.52, significantly decreasing to 0.88 post-treatment. Feet managed without surgery demonstrated greater improvement in Pirani scores (mean change 3.888) compared to those requiring surgery (mean change 2.364), a statistically significant difference (P < 0.001). Acceptable outcomes were observed in 84.06% of feet. Percutaneous Achilles tenotomy was performed in 84% of cases. Surgical intervention was necessary in 15.94% of feet. Casting complications occurred in 14.49% of feet. Conclusion: This study confirms the Ponseti technique’s effectiveness in managing idiopathic CTEV, emphasizing early detection and initiation of conservative treatment. The early findings establish the Ponseti technique as the preferred initial approach for CTEV management.

BEHAVIOURAL PATTERNS OF CHILDREN IN KADUNA STATE ORPHANAGES: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS

Background The plight of orphans, exacerbated by conflict, disease, and socioeconomic factors, remains a pressing global issue, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. Nigeria, notably impacted by the HIV/AIDS epidemic, terrorism, and natural disasters, has witnessed a substantial increase in orphan populations. These children face severe challenges, including child abuse, malnutrition, limited access to education, stigmatization, and a range of psychological and behavioural disorders. Despite some interventions, orphanages primarily address material needs, often neglecting comprehensive medical, social, and psychosocial support. This study explores the behavioural patterns of orphans in Kaduna, Nigeria, and examines how their medical and social challenges compare across various orphanages. Methodology A cross-sectional, comparative analysis was conducted among 100 orphans from selected orphanages in Kaduna. Data were collected through interviewer-administered questionnaires assessing socio-demographics, medical conditions, behavioural patterns, stigma, psychosocial status, and coping strategies. Results The mean age of respondents was 10 years, with 68% being male. Nutritional issues were prevalent, with 53.7% classified as underweight despite 54.9% reportedly consuming balanced diets. Medical concerns were significant, with 33.7% showing clinical signs of illness and 46.7% not fully immunized. Behavioural issues were prominent, including hyperactivity symptoms (27.0%), enuresis (22.3%), and depressive symptoms (1.8%). Socially, most respondents (83.3%) reported positive peer relationships, though bullying (11.4%) and stigmatization (9%) were also observed. Educational access was generally high, with only 2.2% not attending school. However, social support systems varied, with 35.2% reporting strong support and 46.8% adapting their goals as a coping mechanism. Conclusion The findings highlight the complex medical and behavioural challenges faced by orphans in Kaduna's orphanages, underscoring the need for integrated interventions that provide medical, psychosocial, and educational support. A holistic approach is crucial to improving their overall well-being and future prospects.

Experiences and the psychosocial situation of parental caregivers of children with spinal muscular atrophy against the background of new treatment options: a qualitative interview study

BackgroundSpinal muscular atrophy is a rare neurodegenerative disorder in children which leads untreated to muscle wasting, respiratory impairments, and a shortened life expectancy. Parents as primary caregivers are often physically and psychologically burdened. In recent years, new and promising treatment options have been approved, but it remains unclear if they have an impact on the psychosocial situation of affected families.ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to explore the views and experiences of parents as informal caregivers of children with SMA in the course of the disease against the background of new treatment options (Spinraza® or Zolgensma®).MethodsWe conducted qualitative interviews with 27 parents of children with SMA treated with Spinraza® and Zolgensma® from April to September 2020. The analysis was done using thematic analysis and reported according to the COREQ criteria.ResultsThe data analysis resulted in three main themes: a) caregiver burden and negative consequences for families, b) resources and protective aspects, c) psychosocial care needs. The results are discussed against the background of new treatment options and previous models of supportive care needs. Parental caregivers of affected children face multiple burdens in different stages of the child’s disease progression.ConclusionAlthough new treatment options for SMA showed observable effects for most parents, the main caregiver burden and reported symptoms were attributable to the overburdening care tasks. To unburden families, more screening for unmet needs, family-centered help services, professional caregivers, childcare, and sufficient financial support are needed.

A child-centred intercultural approach to the socio-educational inclusion of migrant and refugee children

The increasing trend of child migration, whether forced or voluntary, poses a challenge to policies aimed at ensuring social cohesion and protecting children's rights. Inclusive educational environments play a crucial role in the integration of migrant and refugee children by promoting intercultural dialogue and participation. This study aims to explore the potential of a child-centred approach to the socio-educational inclusion of migrant and refugee children in Europe, proposing a framework of inclusive interculturalism to address the specific challenges these children face in educational settings. A narrative review was conducted, examining a wide range of peer-reviewed sources to synthesise current knowledge on child-centred education and its applicability to migrant and refugee children. The review identifies key challenges in adopting a child-centred approach, including socio-cultural, linguistic and psychological barriers that hinder migrant and refugee children's full participation in education. It highlights the importance of promoting agency, cultural competence and emotional well-being through inclusive and intercultural educational practices. Implementing a child-centred, inclusive intercultural approach can promote social cohesion and reduce inequalities by ensuring that all children, regardless of their background, have access to quality education and opportunities for personal development. However, more empirical research is needed to translate these theoretical frameworks into practical interventions.

Being family via WeChat: Children's interpretation of long‐distance family relationships

AbstractThis study explores how left‐behind children in rural China maintain long‐distance family relationships through WeChat, highlighting the significant role of social media during family separation. It underscores the importance of considering children's voices in understanding family relationships in the digital age. Drawing on online workshops and interviews with 41 participants, the research examines how Chinese left‐behind children use WeChat to facilitate parental engagement and manage their emotions. It also investigates the challenges children face in online communication and their perspectives on grandparental involvement. This article argues that children's agency is situated within structural conditions shaped by a confluence of factors, including technological affordances, unique familial contexts, and socio‐economic inequalities. This situatedness fosters creativity, compromises, and adaptations in ‘being family’ at a distance.

Legal aspects of children’s privacy on the Internet: balance between protection and freedom

The article is devoted to the study of legal aspects of protection of personal data of minors in the digital environment. In today’s world, the development of information technologies and the widespread use of the Internet create new challenges for the legal system, in particular with regard to the protection of personal data of children and adolescents. The article analyzes national and international legislation regulating the protection of personal data of minors, in particular the provisions of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and Ukrainian legal acts. Different approaches to giving consent to the processing of personal data by minors are highlighted, in particular, the role of parents or legal representatives in this process. Existing methods of ensuring consent, such as double opt-in, as well as challenges associated with the practical implementation of these methods are considered. The article also outlines the risks children face online, including illegal data collection, including cyberbullying, phishing, child trafficking and other threats. The need to implement effective legal mechanisms for the protection of children on the Internet, which ensure both safety and freedom of information activity, is emphasized. Ensuring the security of personal data of minors in the digital environment should become one of the priority tasks of modern legal regulation, which requires a comprehensive approach and integration of the best international practices. The author concludes that the effective protection of children’s personal data requires a balanced approach that would combine a high level of security with respect for the rights and freedoms of the child in the digital environment. Increasing the level of digital literacy among children and their parents, as well as creating an appropriate legal infrastructure, are important factors that will contribute to reducing risks in the digital environment. The integration of such approaches into the national legal system should become a priority to ensure the sustainable development of the information society. Successful implementation of these initiatives will not only reduce potential threats to children, but also contribute to the formation of a safe and responsible information space for future generations.

Conversations with Arlie Hochschild

This article presents insights gained from conversations with Arlie Hochschild, which challenged my initial assumptions and encouraged a nuanced integration of sociological and psychological perspectives in exploring children’s wellbeing through their experiences and management of emotional demands within institutional settings. Drawing on parallels between adults who are adept at managing emotions in societal contexts, such as flight attendants, and the challenges faced by children, Hochschild illuminated the distinctive nature of children’s emotional experiences. These insights enriched the theoretical foundation of my research, offering new perspectives on children’s emotion work within institutional settings. By investigating the emotional demands children face during their transition from kindergarten to school and after-school care, the article sheds light on the influence of schools’ approaches to children’s wellbeing and emotional experiences. The findings underscore the importance of considering children’s genuine emotional experiences in wellbeing initiatives, particularly in navigating expectations to be happy.

8657 Thymic Neoplasia In A Pediatric Patient With LI-Fraumeni Syndrome: A Case Report

Abstract Disclosure: M.A. Souza: None. W.M. Lins: None. D. di Matteo: None. J.L. Marcayata: None. A. Kuhn: None. H. Charcar: None. F. Ledesma: None. M.Q. Almeida: None. F. Jatene: None. B.B. Mendonca: None. M.C. Fragoso: None. Introduction: Li-Fraumeni Syndrome (LFS) is a rare autosomal dominant hereditary cancer predisposition syndrome primarily caused by pathogenic variants in the TP53 tumor suppressor gene. The individuals affected are typically young, with a cancer risk of approximately 90% in lifetime. Parents choosing to test their young children face the dilemma of when to disclose their own or the child's status and when to initiate cancer screening if LFS is detected. This process presents psychosocial challenges for both parents and affected children. Both providers and patients question whether the surveillance benefits outweigh the psychological burden of knowing LFS status and screening-related concerns, creating ambivalence toward genetic testing decisions.Case Report: We describe a 6-year-old male with Li-Fraumeni syndrome carrier of the germline pathogenic variant TP53 c.818G>A (p.R273H) in heterozygous (exon 8).In the family history, there are three relatives with advanced tumor cases, with the grandmother already deceased, the mother undergoing chemotherapy treatment, and the cousin being cancer-free for 10 years.The patient in question had no gestational complications. No consanguinity between parents. No signs or symptoms of hormonal hyperfunction. As proposed in the literature, Li-Fraumeni Syndrome patients should undergo frequent screening for early tumor detection, the patient began screening according to the Toronto protocol in 2018, at the age of 1 year and 7 months, through cranial and thoracic MRI, abdominal ultrasound, and annual hormonal assays. In the thoracic MRI conducted in February 2023, an enlarged and heterogeneously signaling thymus was identified, with a nodular formation (absent in previous exams), measuring about 2.5 cm. Facing suspicion of a thymoma, thymic carcinoma, or lymphoma, a biopsy guided by tomography in March 2023 was done. Histological examination was compatible with primary thymic neoplasia. During follow-up, a significant growth of the mass to 9 cm was observed. The patient underwent surgical treatment in August 2023 with resection of the mediastinal mass, and the anatomopathological examination revealed undifferentiated thymic carcinoma, followed in conjunction with the pediatric oncology team. The dilemma is about the adjuvant radiotherapy since the possibility to acquire a new tumor radio-induced such as sarcoma. We proposed to follow with MRI imaging each 3 months and if minimal signal of recurrence he will underwent radiotherapy. Conclusion: In addition to the intrinsic rarity of Li-Fraumeni Syndrome, this case draws attention to the possibility of a thymic tumor, an extremely rare neoplasm in syndrome carriers. In the literature, only scattered case reports show this association. Furthermore, this case reinforces the importance of systematic screening for investigating possible neoplasms in this susceptible population. Presentation: 6/1/2024

8657 Thymic Neoplasia in a Pediatric Patient With LI-Fraumeni Syndrome: A Case Report

Abstract Disclosure: M.A. Souza: None. W.M. Lins: None. D. di Matteo: None. J.L. Marcayata: None. A. Kuhn: None. H. Charcar: None. F. Ledesma: None. M.Q. Almeida: None. F. Jatene: None. B.B. Mendonca: None. M.C. Fragoso: None. Introduction: Li-Fraumeni Syndrome (LFS) is a rare autosomal dominant hereditary cancer predisposition syndrome primarily caused by pathogenic variants in the TP53 tumor suppressor gene. The individuals affected are typically young, with a cancer risk of approximately 90% in lifetime. Parents choosing to test their young children face the dilemma of when to disclose their own or the child's status and when to initiate cancer screening if LFS is detected. This process presents psychosocial challenges for both parents and affected children. Both providers and patients question whether the surveillance benefits outweigh the psychological burden of knowing LFS status and screening-related concerns, creating ambivalence toward genetic testing decisions.Case Report: We describe a 6-year-old male with Li-Fraumeni syndrome carrier of the germline pathogenic variant TP53 c.818G>A (p.R273H) in heterozygous (exon 8).In the family history, there are three relatives with advanced tumor cases, with the grandmother already deceased, the mother undergoing chemotherapy treatment, and the cousin being cancer-free for 10 years.The patient in question had no gestational complications. No consanguinity between parents. No signs or symptoms of hormonal hyperfunction. As proposed in the literature, Li-Fraumeni Syndrome patients should undergo frequent screening for early tumor detection, the patient began screening according to the Toronto protocol in 2018, at the age of 1 year and 7 months, through cranial and thoracic MRI, abdominal ultrasound, and annual hormonal assays. In the thoracic MRI conducted in February 2023, an enlarged and heterogeneously signaling thymus was identified, with a nodular formation (absent in previous exams), measuring about 2.5 cm. Facing suspicion of a thymoma, thymic carcinoma, or lymphoma, a biopsy guided by tomography in March 2023 was done. Histological examination was compatible with primary thymic neoplasia. During follow-up, a significant growth of the mass to 9 cm was observed. The patient underwent surgical treatment in August 2023 with resection of the mediastinal mass, and the anatomopathological examination revealed undifferentiated thymic carcinoma, followed in conjunction with the pediatric oncology team. The dilemma is about the adjuvant radiotherapy since the possibility to acquire a new tumor radio-induced such as sarcoma. We proposed to follow with MRI imaging each 3 months and if minimal signal of recurrence he will underwent radiotherapy. Conclusion: In addition to the intrinsic rarity of Li-Fraumeni Syndrome, this case draws attention to the possibility of a thymic tumor, an extremely rare neoplasm in syndrome carriers. In the literature, only scattered case reports show this association. Furthermore, this case reinforces the importance of systematic screening for investigating possible neoplasms in this susceptible population. Presentation: 6/1/2024

Practitioners’ Experiences of School Readiness in Rural Early Childhood Centres in QwaQwa Free State, South Africa

The analysis of the school preparation experiences of rural early childhood practitioners. Multiple complex issues exist regarding school preparedness in South Africa. Research has found that many South African children are unprepared for formal schooling. Some of the challenges experienced by these young learners were low reading strength, learning setbacks and complications, and sluggish general development. As a result of these issues, young children face long-term repercussions. These include the inability to escape the cycle of poverty, lack of educational support, and poor socioeconomic conditions within their environment. Therefore, it can be argued that teaching within the South African public schooling context is marred with difficulties and unforeseen challenges. It is difficult to imagine how to modify South African infrastructure so all children can reach their full potential. Given that our ancient past is still rife with historical and power changes, the government must consider several factors while developing ways to aid transformation. This study investigated the perspectives of practitioners on school preparedness. At the same time, it investigates the significant learning at the grass-roots level that emerged from participation in a critical paradigm-based participatory action research project. The study is anchored in a philosophical methodology that leverages Practitioners’ idea that early childhood learners are ready for formal school. They do not emphasize play as a pedagogy for learning in preparation for school readiness. This paper is grounded in constructivism, which helps comprehend how school readiness knowledge improves formal education for young students. The author used the qualitative research approach with an interpretive paradigm to explore practitioners’ school readiness experiences. The author developed a semi-structured interview schedule to collect data from six practitioners in the Thabo-Mofutsanyana district in the Free State Province. The findings revealed practitioners lacked appropriate training and support in preparing young learners in ECD centres. Furthermore, practitioners lacked appropriate pedagogical skills to strengthen teaching and learning. The study recommended that practitioners receive ongoing professional teacher development in school readiness and use various teaching and learning strategies such as play pedagogy.

Adherence to gluten free diet and problems faced by children with celiac disease and type 1 diabetes mellitus

ABSTRACT Introduction: Celiac disease (CD) in children can be associated with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) as both share autoimmune etiology. Mainstay of treatment in celiac disease is total avoidance of gluten in diet whereas treatment in child with both the diseases will be Insulin therapy, exercise along with gluten free diet (GFD). There is dearth of literature regarding adherence to GFD and barriers for children with both T1DM and CD. Methods: A questionnaire-based study was done at a tertiary care institute so as to compare the self-reported gluten adherence and the problems faced by children with dual diseases (TIDM and CD) and CD alone. Thirty children of age group 5-14 years each withType 1 DM and CD (T1DMCD group) and celiac disease (CD group) were selected consecutively. A questionnairewas filled by asking questions from either children (above 8 years) or parents (below 8 years) and the results were compiled, compared and further analysed. Results: Baseline demographic parameters were comparable in both the groups. Gluten adherence was found to be worse in T1DMCD group as compared to CD group. Greater number of problems were experienced by children with both TIDM and CD as compared to children with CD alone (P < 0.05). Financial burden more so in T1DMCD group, unawareness about disease and benefits of GFD, less availability and social isolation were found to be the most significant barriers to diet adherence. Conclusion: As these children face dual diseases, they should be made more aware regarding benefits of GFD. Such information is valuable to primary care physicians for better management and rehabilitation of children suffering from these chronic diseases.

PLAYING IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION

Play is an essential form of communication and learning for children, allowing them to reproduce their daily lives, develop reflection, autonomy and creativity. Through play, children face fears and insecurities, interact socially and build knowledge in a playful way. This study highlights the importance of playing in child development, showing that playful activities are fundamental to both mental and body development. In addition, play helps in socialization, respect for rules and development of imagination. Early childhood education should incorporate the playful as an integral part of the teaching process, promoting significant and pleasurable learning.

Co-Design Model of Support for Child and Family Health Nurse Practice with Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Families

Culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) mothers with young children face multiple inequities in accessing primary health services, such as language barriers, social isolation, low health literacy, and the availability of appropriate interpretation services. These inequities are persistent and indicate that child and family health nurse (CFHN) services, the providers of primary healthcare in many developed countries, require better support to address the needs of these families. This study engaged with CFHNs and healthcare interpreters to co-design a model of support for practice using workshops that included individual and collective brainstorming and visual representations. Transcripts of the discussion were analysed using thematic analysis. CFHNs and interpreters were able to articulate their perfect service model: a central multidisciplinary team of CFHNs, interpreters, and bilingual educators who could facilitate nurse–interpreter and nurse–interpreter–client relationships, allowing CFHNs and interpreters to do their jobs properly. This central structural component would support and be supported by rapport, trust, client choice and access, continuity of care, and cultural comfort. The study concluded that CALD mothers’ access and engagement require CFHNs to have support for their cultural comfort through the mechanism of bilingual educators and the expansion of healthcare interpreters’ role and scope in working with CFHNs in the delivery of services.

Lived Experiences of Primary Caregivers of Children with Dyslexia: A Phenomenological Study

Background: Caregivers play an important role in children’s development. Therefore, they need to recognize the learning difficulties that their children face and support them to ensure learning gains and prevent secondary complications. Nevertheless, supporting a child with a learning disability can be challenging for caregivers in many ways. 1 This study investigated caregivers’ knowledge of dyslexia, their challenges when raising children with dyslexia, and the support they seek to raise such children. Methods: Ten individual in-depth interviews (IDIs) and four focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted among 30 caregivers in Sri Lanka. Initial codes were generated using open coding from the transcripts, leading to sub-themes and themes. Results: Thematic analysis revealed a lack of knowledge of dyslexia-type difficulties among caregivers and in society, giving rise to misconceptions, leading to labeling and abuse of children. Caregivers feel emotionally pressured, helpless, stressed, and depressed in bringing up children with dyslexia, creating family disputes. Further, as a family, they have a sense of rejection and discrimination from school and society. Caregivers receive insufficient support from the education and health sectors due to multiple complexities such as myths, misbeliefs, inadequate knowledge and skills, unavailability of resources, and inaccessibility to services. Conclusions: Caregivers and families of children with learning disabilities demand more attention to improve their mental health and family harmony, which in turn improves children’s educational and health status. Sri Lankan health, educational, and social services should be optimized to reach the families of children with dyslexia-type difficulties.

Do First Language, Word Frequency and Input Matter in Bilingual’s Language Acquisition?

The acquisition of morphosyntactic features, such as third-person singular (3SG) inflection, is a critical aspect of language development. While much research has focused on monolingual children’s acquisition of 3SG inflection, less is known about how bilingual children navigate this process, particularly those from non-inflectional first language (L1) backgrounds. Furthermore, two well established characteristics found in other bilingual groups: word frequency and L1 transfer are still remain unclear in the acquisition of 3SG inflection in Chinese-English bilingual groups. Addressing these gaps are crucial for understanding the unique challenges bilingual children face and the factors influencing their acquisition of English morphosyntatic feature. In this study, we employed corpus to analyze longitudinal naturalistic data from three Chinese-English bilingual children and one English monolingual child. We investigated the children’s use of 3SG inflection across obligatory contexts, examining the frequency of verb exposure in both parental input and a large corpus (COCA). Our results indicate that bilingual children, especially those from a non-inflectional L1 background, demonstrated delayed acquisition of 3SG inflection compared to monolingual counterparts. However, both groups showed better accuracy with high-frequency verbs, underscoring the importance of input frequency. Additionally, L1 transfer effects were evident in both monolingual children and bilingual children, with the bilingual children struggling more with verbs whose L1 lacked verb agreement. These findings suggest that both input frequency and L1 transfer play significant roles in shaping bilingual children’s acquisition of 3SG inflection. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of bilingual language development, with implications for language acquisition theory and educational practices, particularly in addressing the needs of children from diverse linguistic backgrounds.

The impact of breastfeeding on facial appearance in adolescent children.

Evidence that breastfeeding impacts the facial features of children is conflicting. Most studies to date have focused on dental and skeletal malocclusion. It currently remains unclear whether such effects are of sufficient magnitude to be detectable on outward facial appearance. Here, we evaluate the extent to which maternally reported breastfeeding is associated with 3D facial shape in a large adolescent cohort. After extracting 3D facial surfaces from MR scans in 2275 9- and 10-year-old children and aligning the surfaces in dense correspondence, we analyzed the effect of breastfeeding on shape as a dichotomous (no/yes) and semi-quantitative (to assess duration in months) variable using partial least squares regression. Our results showed no effect (p = 0.532) when breastfeeding was dichotomized. However, when treated as a semi-quantitative variable, breastfeeding duration was associated with statistically significant changes in shape (p = 3.61x 10-4). The most prominent facial changes included relative retrusion of the central midface, zygomatic arches, and orbital regions along with relative protrusion of forehead, cheek, and mandible. The net effect was that as breastfeeding duration increased, the facial profile in children became flatter (less convex). The observed effects on the face, however, were subtle and likely not conspicuous enough to be noticed by most observers. This was true even when comparing the faces of children breastfed for 19-24 months to children with no reported breastfeeding. Thus, breastfeeding does appear to have detectable effect on outward facial appearance in adolescent children, but its practical impact appears to be minimal.