Development of supported overground stepping in infants with Down syndrome

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The goal of this study is to learn how the ability to walk with mobility devices develops in infants and toddlers with Down syndrome, which will guide the design of early interventions to support walking development.

Who can participate in this study? 

Children with Down syndrome (10-22 months of age) who cannot walk independently 

Who cannot participate in this study? 

Infants who are able to take 10 independent walking steps 

Where does this study take place? 

University of Southern California Health Sciences Campus, Los Angeles, California (free parking or public transportation reimbursement is provided) 

What activities are involved in this study? 

Tests of the child's motor skills and observation of the child taking steps on a treadmill and with a mobility device 

What is the expected time commitment of this study? 

1-5 visits, spaced 3 months apart (Number of visits depends on the age of the child at enrollment: Children who enroll in the study at 10 months of age can participate in all five visits; children who enroll in the study at 22 months will only participate in one visit) 

What languages does this study support? 

English and Spanish 

Is compensation provided? 

Families receive $25 per visit (up to $125)

If you have any questions or are interested in joining the Development of supported overground stepping in infants with Down syndrome study, please contact: Kari Kretch at learninglab@usc.edu.

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