Drumming Lessons for Down Syndrome
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores whether drumming lessons can improve self-control and timing skills in children with Down syndrome. It examines if two months of lessons can enhance behavior and skills. Children with Down syndrome who have not had prior drumming lessons and have normal hearing and vision are ideal candidates. Participants will either begin lessons immediately or after initial lab visits, which include enjoyable activities like computer tasks and drumming to music.
As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity for children to engage in enjoyable activities while potentially enhancing important skills.
Do I have to stop taking my current medications for the trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.
What prior data suggests that drumming lessons are safe for children with Down syndrome?
Research shows that drumming lessons are generally safe for children with Down syndrome. Studies have found that drumming can improve motor skills and coordination without major risks. Specifically, Ringenbach and colleagues discovered that drumming helped with repetitive movements and coordination in people with Down syndrome. These studies reported no serious side effects, indicating that drumming lessons are well-tolerated. Although this study does not follow the usual clinical trial phases, the evidence suggests that drumming is a safe activity for children involved.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about using drumming lessons for individuals with Down syndrome because this approach taps into music's potential to enhance cognitive and motor skills in a fun and engaging way. Unlike traditional therapies that might focus on structured exercises, drumming lessons offer an interactive and enjoyable alternative that can boost motivation and participation. The rhythmic nature of drumming could also help improve coordination and timing, offering benefits that standard behavioral therapies might not provide. By integrating music into therapy, there's hope for a more holistic development experience for participants.
What evidence suggests that drumming lessons might be an effective treatment for improving self-control in children with Down syndrome?
Research has shown that drumming lessons positively affect children with Down syndrome, particularly in enhancing movement and coordination. Studies have found that these lessons improve repeated movements and coordination. Drumming also enhances a child's ability to control actions. Learning to play the drums supports the development of physical and movement skills. Overall, these findings suggest that drumming lessons may offer valuable benefits for behavior control and timing skills in children with Down syndrome. In this trial, the experimental group will receive the drumming lesson intervention to assess these effects, while the control group will receive the lessons after completing baseline and testing measures.12367
Who Is on the Research Team?
Miriam Lense, PhD
Principal Investigator
Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Amy Needham, PhD
Principal Investigator
Vanderbilt University
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for children aged 7-15 with Down syndrome who haven't had drumming lessons before and don't have uncorrected hearing or vision loss. It explores if drumming can improve self-control and timing skills.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Baseline Assessment
Initial lab visit for baseline testing including brain recordings, computer tasks, and drumming to music
Treatment
Experimental group receives drumming lessons for 2 months
Post-Treatment Assessment
Lab visit for post-treatment testing including brain recordings, computer tasks, and drumming to music
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for improvements in inhibitory control and social behavior
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Drumming Lessons
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Vanderbilt University
Lead Sponsor