Participant Registry
The Research Participant Registry (RPR) is a shared resource in partnership with the Division of the Developmental Medicine, Department of Neurology, and Rosamund Stone Zander Translational Neuroscience Center. We here in the Laboratories of Cognitive Neuroscience focus on many aspects of infant and child development, including typical development and various developmental disorders such as autism, dyslexia, and ADHD. Through our research, including several collaborations with colleagues in the Boston area, we aim to shed light on the many ways in which a child's experience can shape the developing brain.
In every new discovery that we make, through every step forward, we depend upon children and families who support our work by participating in our studies. Your involvement could provide us with valuable insight and can also be a fun, educational opportunity for you and your child. Many of our research studies offer monetary compensation, toys for your child, and/or feedback about your child's development.
Participant registry form
Disclaimer: By enrolling in the Participant Registry, you are consenting to be contacted by Boston Children’s Hospital study staff via mail, telephone, or regular email (i.e., non-encrypted email). The Boston Children’s Hospital standard is to send emails securely by encryption. By enrolling in the Participant Registry, you acknowledge that you have been informed and understand that we cannot guarantee that regular non-encrypted email will be confidential.
Frequently asked questions
What happens when I join your registry?
Joining the Participant Registry does not obligate you to participate in any of our studies — it simply allows us to let you know when there is a study in your child’s age range. Participant records are kept completely confidential by our research team. Of course, you can unenroll from the registry at any time.
How and when will my family be contacted for a particular study?
Study participation is generally based on a child’s age and/or their diagnosis, when applicable. When your child is potentially eligible for a study, we will send you a letter or an e-mail describing the study in detail.
We may then follow up with you by phone to offer more information and answer any questions. If you are interested in participating, we will arrange a time that is convenient for you and your child.
What are study sessions like?
Many study sessions last about one hour, though some require a longer period of time. Most families find participation enjoyable and interesting. If we contact you about a specific study, we will explain in detail what will take place during the session if you decide to participate with your child.
Do you pay people to participate in studies?
Most studies offer a small monetary compensation for your time and travel expenses. Many also give a small toy as a thank you to our young “neuroscientists in training,” as well as free parking and childcare for any siblings who may come along.