Abstract
Background
Given the importance of early language acquisition and its connection with psychosocial development, various tools have been developed to identify red flags in the first two years of children’s lives. However, these tools vary in terms of their use and measurement properties. Therefore, this review examines the measurement properties of scales for assessing pre-linguistic skills to identify early predictors and diagnostic properties of tools and the age range for assessing pre-linguistic skills of 0 to 2-year-old children.
Methodology
Electronic databases including Google Scholar, PubMed, PsycINFO, ASHA, CINAHL, ERIC, Cochrane Library were searched, along with citation-chaining strategies. An initial pool of 50 tools was identified. Based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, 15 tools were retained for further review. A total of 558 articles were identified, from which 52 were reviewed for psychometric properties of the selected tool.
Results
The findings reveal several limitations across assessment tools. These gaps underscore the need for a more comprehensive and inclusive tool for assessing pre-linguistic skills.
Conclusion
Based on the review, we recommend the development of a web-based tool for assessing pre-linguistic skills in infants. Such a tool would be enhancing early identification and intervention, which is crucial for effective intervention and optimal developmental outcomes.