Examining music training for children with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders
The Synchrony Study: A Randomized Controlled Trial of Music Training for Children With a Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)
This study is testing if music training can help children with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders improve their behavior and thinking skills.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 32 (estimated) |
| Ages | 8 Years to 16 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | The Mind Research Network Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Albuquerque, New Mexico) |
| Trial ID | NCT06005181 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
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.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are children diagnosed with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders who have confirmed prenatal alcohol exposure.
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.
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 performed: 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.
Eligibility criteria
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 this trial is running
Albuquerque, New Mexico
- 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
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.