Randomized trial of a scalable parenting program to support brain pathways and socio-emotional development in preterm infants
Official title: A Randomized Control Trial of a Scalable Parenting Program to support Candidate Brain Pathways, Autonomic Regulation, and Socio-Emotional Development in Preterm Infants
Funded at University of Houston · NIH-11368003 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A randomized trial will test a scalable parenting program started after hospital discharge to help preterm infants and their families support brain development and emotional health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | June 9, 2026 |
| Project end | May 31, 2031 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $597,736 |
| NIH project number | 1R01HD117393-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11368003 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Families of infants born preterm (before 37 weeks gestation) and recently discharged from the hospital.
✕Less likely to help
Families of term infants or those with complex medical conditions not included in the study may not directly benefit.
What this research studies
This project tests a scalable, early-life parenting program designed for families of preterm infants starting soon after hospital discharge. It will enroll caregivers and measure outcomes related to autonomic regulation, brain pathway development, and socio-emotional growth as the child ages. The study uses a randomized design to compare the program to standard care, with interventions delivered in a way that can reach many families. Outcomes will reflect both infant neurodevelopment and family well-being, aiming to identify practical strategies for long-term mental health benefits. The work is led by the University of Houston and involves collaborators focused on early infancy and parenting.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the program could improve long-term mental health and developmental outcomes for children born preterm and support families through scalable, accessible services.
How similar studies have gone: Previous early-parenting interventions show promise, but this study tests a scalable approach starting in infancy.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Houston
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bick, Johanna Renee — University of Houston
- Study coordinator: Bick, Johanna Renee
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.