Prevalence of Neurodevelopmental Disorders Among Children Attending Early Year Education Level Within Kiambu County, Kenya

Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) significantly affect a child’s capacity to function in educational, social, and personal settings. This study sought to determine the prevalence of NDD symptoms among children in early year education levels in Kiambu County, Kenya. A cross-sectional descriptive design was employed, targeting 348 early childhood teachers from public and private schools across 12 sub-counties. Data collection utilized the Early Symptomatic Syndromes Eliciting Neurodevelopmental Clinical Examination Questionnaire (ESSENCE-Q), a 12-item screener for early detection of NDD-related symptoms. The ESSENCE-Q tool, developed by Gillberg Neuropsychiatry Centre, has proven effective as a screening mechanism for various symptoms associated with NDDs. The tool comprises items related to developmental, behavioral, and emotional symptoms, and though it is not diagnostic, it serves as a valuable initial screener. Out of 348 administered questionnaires, 311 were returned (89% response rate). The findings revealed a high prevalence of symptoms related to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Specifically, 13% of learners exhibited clear signs of inattention and hyperactivity, 10% had feeding difficulties associated with ASD, and 15% showed significant mood-related symptoms, with an additional 18% presenting mild symptoms. These findings indicate a concerning level of potential NDDs in the region, necessitating further diagnostic assessments and policy-level interventions. Comparisons with global studies revealed significantly higher symptom prevalence, which may be attributed to methodological, cultural, and environmental factors. The study underscores the urgency for tailored early interventions and enhanced teacher training in Kenya. Keywords: Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Prevalence, Early Childhood Education, Inclusive Education & Child Development