Researchers
NEEDHAM, AMY E PHD, BA
Vanderbilt University
INCLUDE Grants
Effects of Drumming Lessons on Brain and Behavior in Children with Down Syndrome
Grant Number
R21HD116079
NIH Institute
NICHD
Mechanism
R21
Project Narrative
The proposed research is a randomized control trial designed to investigate the effects of
drumming lessons on inhibitory control behavior and underlying brain function in 7- to 12-year-old
children with Down syndrome. Activities designed to enhance perceptual-motor synchronization
of the beat when listening to music have been shown to subsequently enhance self-control skills
in children. The proposed research may generate empirical support using drumming lessons as
part of a collection of therapeutic activities that support positive behavior across multiple domains
in children with Down syndrome.