Principal Investigator: Amy Needham, Ph.D.
Other researchers: Miriam Lense
Description
Our study aims to investigate whether learning to drum has a beneficial effect on cognitive and behavioral outcomes in children with Down syndrome.
The study involves two in-lab visits where your child will complete a few tasks while we measure their brain activity using EEG. This will involve trained lab members putting a special non-invasive cap on your child that will allow us to measure underlying brain activity. Additionally, your child will receive 8 weeks of complimentary drumming lessons, which will begin either after the first or second visit to the lab.
Study Duration
During the hour-long study visits, your child will complete different activities under the guidance of one of our trained lab members. We make every effort to ensure that children feel safe and welcome and that the sessions are friendly and fun. You will also be asked to complete a questionnaire about your child. Your child will also complete 8 weeks of complimentary drumming lessons twice a week, beginning after either your first or second visit to the lab.
Eligibility Criteria/ Participant Criteria
- Children with Down syndrome between the approximate ages of 7 and 12 years
- Exclusion:
- Children who are not physically capable of engaging in drumming safely
- Children who have already participated in formal drumming lessons
- Children with significant vision and/or hearing impairments
- Children with a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder
Visit Requirements
Two study visits to Vanderbilt University, lasting about one hour. Some participants may also be asked to attend free drumming lessons twice a week at one of Musical Bridges music therapy clinic locations.
Participant Criteria
Children with Down syndrome aged 7-12
Compensation
You will be compensated up to $100 in Amazon Gift Cards for your participation in the study.
Brochure
Download Brochure
Last Updated: Friday, February 20, 2026