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Reading, Language, Music and Auditory Processing in Children
Description
In this study, we are interested in the connection between musical training, language and reading development. Each child will play reading, language and music games that will determine reading, language and auditory development. Some studies suggest that rapid auditory processing deficits are the main cause of developmental dyslexia and this study aims to investigate how specific these auditory processing deficits are. As a result, this study aims to investigate the often suggested link between musical training and improved auditory, language and reading skills. Our goal is to investigate and develop the best diagnostic and remediation tools to support students with reading, language, and learning difficulties.

In this study we will play fun games with your child and explore his or her reading, language and music abilities. These games are carefully selected for each age group, and are based on standardized assessments of reading, language and cognitive aptitude. We aim to invite children who have reading difficulties or family histories of reading difficulties and have musical training.

We understand that different children may have different needs with respect to the type of reading instruction, and it is our hope to identify reading instruction and remediation methods that work best for a variety of young readers. It would be our pleasure to share the overall results of this study with parents, as well as explain our assessment methods.
Eligibility for study participation
Children: 4 -12 years of age
- With reading disabilities or family histories of reading disabilities
- Without reading disabilities or family histories of reading disabilities
- That play a musical instrument regularly
Participation Details
This study will involve two two-hour sessions at our lab.

- Session 1: children will play auditory processing and musical aptitude games on a computer (i.e. listening to sounds on headphones and making judgments about them).

- Session 2: children will have their reading, language and cognitive abilities assessed using standardized assessments (i.e. CTOPP, CELF, K-BIT). After each session, children will receive a gift certificate to Barnes and Noble bookstore and other small prizes. The families have found the experience unique, highly enjoyable, and educational.
Research Contact
Monica Vakil: monica.vakil@childrens.harvard.edu
Maria Chang: maria.chang@childrens.harvard.edu
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