Examining music training for children with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders
Official title: The Synchrony Study: A Randomized Controlled Trial of Music Training for Children With a Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)
Run by The Mind Research Network · NCT06005181 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if music training can help children with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders improve their behavior and thinking skills.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 8 Years to 16 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 32 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | The Mind Research Network Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Albuquerque, New Mexico) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | October 2, 2023 |
| Main results expected | August 31, 2028 |
| Study ends | December 31, 2028 |
| Registry record updated | August 14, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06005181 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates for this study are children diagnosed with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders who have confirmed prenatal alcohol exposure.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with other confirmed developmental disorders not associated with FASD, such as autism spectrum disorder or Down Syndrome, 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 clinical trial investigates whether music training can enhance behavioral regulation and cognitive performance in children diagnosed with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD). Participants will engage in either daily piano training or music listening for 12 weeks, with the order of interventions randomized. Assessments will be conducted before and after each intervention to evaluate changes in behavior and cognitive abilities. The study aims to explore the potential of music training to positively influence brain development and functioning in children affected by prenatal alcohol exposure.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide new therapeutic strategies to improve cognitive and behavioral outcomes for children with FASD.
How similar studies have gone: While music training has shown positive effects in other populations, this specific approach for children with FASD is novel and has not been extensively tested.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Children must receive a research designation of FASD * Children must have confirmed prenatal alcohol exposure Exclusion Criteria: * Children with other confirmed developmental disorders that are not deemed associated with FASD (e.g. autism spectrum disorder, Down Syndrome). Children with attention deficits (e.g. ADHD) are not excluded. * Children with neurological disorders (epilepsy, cerebral palsy, etc.) * Children who have experienced a traumatic brain injury with loss of consciousness \>10 minutes * Children with intelligence quotient scores \<70 * Children who are, or become, a ward of the state; however children with a legal representative who can consent on their behalf will not be excluded * Children with ongoing music training outside of school or \>1 year of prior private music lessons.
Where it's running
-
The Mind Research Network
Albuquerque, New Mexico, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Julia M Stephen, PhD
- Email: JSTEPHEN@MRN.ORG
- Phone: 505-272-5028
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
-
CARRII Native Intervention Optimization: Finding the Best Online Help for Native Women at Risk of Alcohol-Exposed Pregnancy
This trial tests different online components of CARRII to see which mix best reduces risk of alcohol-exposed pregnancy among Native women who could become pregnant and drink.
-
Thrive person-centered planning for young adults with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders
This program tests whether the Thrive person-centered planning helps young adults (18–25) with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders improve goal setting, social support, and quality of life by comparing immediate versus delayed start and individual versus group formats.
-
Trigeminal nerve stimulation for children with prenatal alcohol exposure
This study is testing whether a gentle electric stimulation on the forehead can help children aged 8-12 with ADHD caused by prenatal alcohol exposure feel better and manage their symptoms at home.
-
Using the My Health Coach app to help adults with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders
This study is testing whether using the My Health Coach app can help improve the quality of life for adults with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders.
-
Testing a new app for mental health providers to support families affected by fetal alcohol spectrum disorders
This study is testing a new app to see if it helps mental health providers better support families affected by fetal alcohol spectrum disorders using two different training methods.
-
Psychoeducation program for parents of children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders
This study is testing a program to help parents of kids with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders learn better ways to manage their children's behavior and improve family life.
How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.