Tracking the trajectory of executive function from 2.5 to 6.5 years of age and the impact of COVID-19
Abstract
Given the significance of executive function (EF) for longer-term outcomes, it is important to understand the trajectory of EF in childhood and how COVID-19 influenced this trajectory. 139 (71 girls) children were examined longitudinally from 2.5 to 6.5 years using the Minnesota Executive Function Scale. Individual differences in EF abilities were stable longitudinally, and children with a more highly educated mother had higher EF scores. Children tested 1-3 years after the first lockdown showed greater variation in individual differences over time. Additional analyses examined linear growth curves for children assessed 3-4 times from 2.5 to 6.5 years. Children who were in preschool during the first lockdown had steeper growth curve trajectories than children in the first year of primary school.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Neural and Behavioral Psychology Studies
Autism Spectrum Disorder Research
COVID-19 and Mental Health
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Child Development
- Publisher
- Oxford University Press (OUP)
- Volume
- 97
- Issue
- 5
- Pages
- 1654–1670
- Publication date
- 14 January 2026
- Language
- EN