Neurodevelopmental benefits of childcare are rarely captured in policy-relevant research due to methodological and logistical constraints. This study addresses that gap by embedding neuroimaging within a large-scale evaluation.
Researchers: Munshi Sulaiman, PhD; Shaila Ahmed, PhD; Sakila Yesmin; Diva Dhar; Anandi Mani; Seon Deoni; Raisa Adiba; Aloka Ahmed Oishy
Partners: BRAC Institute of Educational Development (BRAC IED); ICDDR, B; Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF)
Timeline: 2023-2026
Status: Ongoing
Contact: raisa.adiba@bracu.ac.bd
Context
While evidence increasingly links quality childcare to improved child development and women’s labour force participation, little is known about its effects on early brain development, particularly in low-income, urban contexts. Neurodevelopmental impacts remain a “hidden benefit” of childcare and are rarely measured in policy-relevant studies due to methodological and logistical constraints. This study embeds neuroimaging within a large childcare evaluation to bridge that evidence gap.
Objective
The purpose of this study is to examine how access to quality childcare influences early brain development and neurocognitive outcomes among young children, generating biological and behavioural evidence on the developmental benefits of childcare beyond standard child development indicators.
Methodology
This neuroimaging sub-study is part of the Gates-funded Deepening Evidence to Action on Childcare and Capital Levers project. Using portable MRI (Hyperfine Swoop), it examines brain structure and neurocognitive outcomes among children aged 0–4 years. A case-control design compares childcare users with age- and gender-matched non-users from the same clusters across Dhaka, Tongi, Savar, and Gazipur. Neuroimaging outcomes are complemented by standardized developmental assessments (GSED, IDELA) and qualitative evidence on caregiving practices.
Findings and Recommendations
Forthcoming.
