The Reading Brain of Children

The Center for the Study of Learning at Georgetown University Medical Center seeks first graders to take part in a research study of typical reading development. The study is approved by the Institutional Review Board of the University and sponsored by the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

The goal of the proposed research is to examine changes in the brain associated with early reading development. Children in the US and China will participate in this study.

Volunteers will be followed from 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grade (from spring, 2011 to spring, 2013). These children will be assessed each spring using tests of reading and other skills, the results of which will be made available to parents. We will also take pictures of brain activity using Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).

Interested parents should call our office if their child meets these criteria:

In good health, with no history of head injury or neurological disorder
Learning to read as well as other children in their class
English is the first and primary language
Normal or corrected-to-normal vision
Not diagnosed with a learning disability or ADHD
No metal in the head or body (including non-removable orthodontic devices)

There is no cost for participation. All data are securely stored and are not shared without parental permission. Travel expenses to the University will be reimbursed. Children receive prizes, a picture of their brain, and a bookstore gift-card at each visit.

Contact: Eileen Napoliello, 202-687-8265 from 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM; email address: emn5@georgetown.edu