A new study will see researchers from the University of East London using eye-tracking technology to establish if future language, social and attention weaknesses can be identified in babies as young as six-months.
Being able to predict weaknesses in the critical pre-school years would enable professionals to develop targeted interventions, and increase the long-term chances that babies born in some of the UK's most deprived areas can enter school with an equal chance of success.
It is the first time a study of this kind has been taken directly into the community through Children's Centres to engage parents from all backgrounds.