Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Interventional Ages 2 to 7

Evaluating how simplified language helps young children with Down syndrome learn

Official title: How Single-Word and Telegraphic Simplification Affects Language Processing and Word Learning in Young Children With Down Syndrome

Run by Michigan State University · NCT06951516 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study tests if using simpler language helps young children with Down syndrome learn new words better than using full sentences.

Quick facts

Study typeInterventional
Ages2 Years to 7 Years
SexAll
Enrollment30 (estimated)
SponsorMichigan State University
Academic / other
Locations1 site (East Lansing, Michigan)
StatusRecruiting
StartedJanuary 1, 2025
Main results expectedMay 31, 2027
Study endsMay 31, 2027
Registry record updatedJune 12, 2026
Trial IDNCT06951516 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates for this study are children aged 2-7 years with Down syndrome who primarily speak English.

Probably not a fit

Patients with acquired brain injuries, cerebral palsy, or uncorrected vision or hearing impairments may not benefit from this study.

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This study aims to experimentally assess how different types of simplified language, such as single-word and telegraphic speech, impact language processing and word learning in young children with Down syndrome. The research will focus on understanding the effects of these simplifications compared to full grammatical sentences. It will also explore child characteristics that may influence the effectiveness of these language interventions. By analyzing these factors, the study seeks to identify the most effective strategies for enhancing language development in this population.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved language interventions that enhance communication skills in young children with Down syndrome.

How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown promise in using simplified language approaches for language development in children with similar conditions, indicating potential success for this study.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Down syndrome

English as primary language

2-7 years old

Exclusion Criteria:

* Acquired brain injury

Cerebral palsy

Uncorrected vision or hearing impairment

Where it's running

  • Michigan State University
    East Lansing, Michigan, United States
    Recruiting

Study contacts

  • Principal investigator: Courtney Venker, PhD — Michigan State University
  • Study coordinator: Courtney Venker, PhD
  • Email: cvenker@msu.edu
  • Phone: 517-884-2259

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.