Measuring executive function in young children with Down syndrome

Executive Function Outcome Measures for Young Children with Down Syndrome

['FUNDING_R01'] · COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY · NIH-10654761

This study is looking to create helpful tools to understand how young children with Down syndrome think and make decisions, so we can better support their growth and learning from ages 2.5 to 8, and parents will be part of the journey to share their experiences.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorCOLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (FORT COLLINS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10654761 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing reliable and valid measures of executive function in young children with Down syndrome, ages 2.5 to 7.99 years. The study will assess 210 children across four data collection waves to ensure that the assessments accurately reflect their cognitive abilities without being influenced by their specific developmental delays. By using advanced statistical methods, the research aims to create a set of assessments that can effectively track changes in executive function over time, which is crucial for tailoring early interventions. Parents and caregivers will be involved in the process, providing valuable insights into their children's development.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation are young children diagnosed with Down syndrome, specifically between the ages of 2.5 and 7.99 years.

Not a fit: Patients outside the age range of 2.5 to 7.99 years or those without a diagnosis of Down syndrome may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved assessment tools that help identify and support the developmental needs of young children with Down syndrome.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in developing targeted assessments for cognitive functions in children with developmental disorders, indicating a promising approach.

Where this research is happening

FORT COLLINS, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.