Arranz, E. 1 , Velasco, D. 1 , Olabarrieta, F. 1 , Egurza, M. 1 , Galende, N. 1 , Manzano, A. 2 , Martin, J. L. 2 , Ibarluzea, J. 3 , Sanchez de Miguel, M. 1 & Lertxundi, A. 3
1 Basque Country University
2 Etxadi, University Center
3 Subdirección Salud Pública Guipuzcoa
The goal of a series of studies conducted by groups Etxadi and Inma was to test the influence of family context variables on several fields of children´s cognitive development. Protocols to assess in depth the quality of family context were carried out, on samples of children aged from 2 to 10 years, in order to analyze its influence on cognitive development, measured through reliable instruments. Family context variables, as general quality of context, mother´s educational level, the use of scaffolding strategies during play and family conflict, among others, showed significant associations with theory of mind development, general intelligence, social comprehension skills and special talents in gifted children. The family context influence should be taken into account to find out its moderation relationship with other influencing factors on cognitive development. Data obtained support the development and implementation of family context enrichment programs aimed to improve cognitive development in children.