Abstract: Objective To observe the effect of early cognitive training on rehabilitation of children with developmental retardation.Methods From January 2014 to December 2016, a total of 185 children with developmental retardation in maternal and child health hospital of Huaihua city were randomly divided into observation group (n=95) and control group (n=90).The observation group received cognitive training and routine rehabilitation, while the control group received only routine rehabilitation.The two groups were evaluated by Gesell development scale before and after 3 courses of treatment.Results The development level of the two groups was significantly improved (P<0.01).However, the rehabilitation effect of the observation group was more obvious.Conclusion Early cognitive language training can effectively improve the developmental level of each zone in the children with developmental retardation.The earlier intervention, the better effect will be.