A strengths-based, culturally responsive family intervention improves Latino kindergarteners’ vocabulary and approaches to learning

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Posted on April 9, 2022 by childrenslearninginstitute

Published:

October 20, 2021

Publication:

Child Development

CLI Author:

Gloria Yeomans-Maldonado, PhD

Abstract:

Food routines are an ecocultural asset of Latino families. This cluster-randomized trial with 248 children (Mage = 67 months; 50% girls; 13 schools) investigated the impact of a 4-week family program designed to capitalize on food routines in improving Latino kindergarteners’ outcomes in the United States. There were moderate-to-large impacts on child vocabulary (especially food-related) at end-of-treatment and the 5-month follow-up, and suggestive evidence of moderate impacts on approaches to learning (ATL; including ATL math) and executive function at the 5-month follow-up (d = .38-.95). There were no statistically significant impacts on children’s math or literacy skills. A strengths-based, culturally responsive family intervention that is integrated into Latino family life can improve the skills needed to succeed in school.

Citation:

Leyva, Diana & Weiland, Christina & Shapiro, Anna & Yeomans-Maldonado, Gloria & Febles, Angela. (2021). A strengths-based, culturally responsive family intervention improves Latino kindergarteners’ vocabulary and approaches to learning. Child development. 93. 10.1111/cdev.13698.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1111/cdev.13698