The Effects of a Family-Based Responsive Instructional Pacing Program Based on Functional Reading on Executive Functions and Adaptive Functioning in Children with Down Syndrome

Objectives: Given that children with Down syndrome (DS) face various challenges in cognitive and behavioral functioning, the present study aimed to investigate the effects of a family-based responsive instructional pacing program based on functional reading on the executive functions and adaptive functioning in children with DS. Method: The present study employed a quasi-experimental design with a pretest, posttest, and a three-month follow-up. The statistical population of the present study consisted of all children aged ۹ to ۱۲ years with DS who were referred to the Pardis Rehabilitation Center in Rasht, Iran, in ۲۰۲۵, and their parents. The sample consisted of ۱۵ children with DS selected through convenience sampling and assigned to the experimental group. The instruments used included the Tower of Hanoi, the Stroop Test, the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test, and the Adaptive Behavior Assessment System. The training program was implemented for the parents in the experimental group in the form of eight ۹۰-minute sessions. Data were analyzed using one-way repeated-measures univariate and multivariate analyses of variance with Bonferroni post hoc tests in SPSS-۲۷. Results: The results of the analysis of variance indicated that significant improvements in executive functions and adaptive functioning were observed following the intervention in children with DS (p < ۰.۰۵). Post hoc test results also confirmed that the intervention gains were maintained at follow-up, demonstrating the durability of the program effects. Conclusion: Based on the findings, the family-based responsive instructional pacing program based on functional reading can have important implications for improving the executive and behavioral skills of children with DS and appears to be a promising intervention.

کلیدواژه ها:

Responsive Teaching ، Instructional Pacing ، Executive Function ، Adaptive Behavior ، health behavior ، Down Syndrome