Music training to help children with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder.

The synchrony study: A randomized controlled trial of music training for children with FASD

NIH-funded research Lovelace Biomedical Research Institute · NIH-10899537

This study is exploring how music activities can help children with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) improve their listening skills, attention, and memory, making learning easier and more fun for them.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionLovelace Biomedical Research Institute NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Albuquerque, United States)
Project IDNIH-10899537 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how music training can improve cognitive and sensory skills in children affected by fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD). The study will involve children participating in music activities designed to enhance their auditory perception, attention, and memory. By engaging in these activities, the children will practice predicting and correcting sounds, which may lead to better brain function and improved academic skills. The research aims to provide a new evidence-based intervention for children with FASD, who often lack effective treatment options.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-21 years who have been diagnosed with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have fetal alcohol spectrum disorder or related cognitive and sensory deficits may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved cognitive and sensory outcomes for children with FASD, enhancing their academic performance and overall quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that music training can positively impact cognitive and sensory skills in various populations, suggesting potential success for this approach in children with FASD.

Where this research is happening

Albuquerque, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.