Benefits of early stimulation in the prevention of neurodevelopmental disorders in the first thousand days: a narrative review

Abstract

Neurodevelopmental disorders in early childhood have a high prevalence worldwide, which represents a challenge for specialists because they must manage it to minimize alterations in children from the prenatal stage. The objective of this review is to carry out a narrative analysis of the available evidence on neurodevelopment and its positive impact that early stimulation, particularly during the first thousand days of life, has on the prevention of neurodevelopmental disorders. There are various child development standardized screening tests to identify possible neurodevelopmental alarm signs, such as the EDI, the Bayley, or the M-CHAT checklist. One of the non-invasive treatment alternatives to treat and prevent alterations in the child is early stimulation. Through comprehensive intervention in the child, it is possible to acquire, compensate and/or enhance neurodevelopmental skills, resulting in a being adapted to the environment that surrounds them. In conclusion, it is important to design and validate a comprehensive guide for monitoring child neurodevelopment, from the prenatal stage to prevent alterations or avoid sequelae in the child and public policies that promote an adequate childhood.