Child Development Research Study
Researchers at Yale University are conducting a study with 4-5 year olds. Apply to learn more about your heart!

Fast Facts

Children Ages 4-5 Years Old

Compensation Provided

Able to travel to New Haven, CT.
Study Background
This study examines changes in young children’s heart rates and their engagement levels during various tasks, using heart rate sensors.
In this research study, we are investigating how young children engage in tasks by measuring their heart rates. Our goal is to understand their level of engagement during activities that may not be apparent from their behavior alone. During the study, your child will wear sensors to track their heart rate while they watch a video of animals and work on puzzles.
We have observed that children feel more at ease when their parents also participate by wearing sensors. This approach allows us to ensure the sensors function properly and provides an opportunity to compare children’s heart rates with those of adults. By the end of the study, both you and your child will gain new insights into your heart rates and how they reflect engagement during different tasks.

Study Background
This study examines changes in young children’s heart rates and their engagement levels during various tasks, using heart rate sensors.

In this research study, we are investigating how young children engage in tasks by measuring their heart rates. Our goal is to understand their level of engagement during activities that may not be apparent from their behavior alone. During the study, your child will wear sensors to track their heart rate while they watch a video of animals and work on puzzles.
We have observed that children feel more at ease when their parents also participate by wearing sensors. This approach allows us to ensure the sensors function properly and provides an opportunity to compare children’s heart rates with those of adults. By the end of the study, both you and your child will gain new insights into your heart rates and how they reflect engagement during different tasks.

Additional Information
This study aims to understand how young children engage in tasks by measuring changes in their heart rates. The researchers are particularly interested in observing engagement levels that may not be visible through behavior alone.
Your family may qualify for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Child ages 4-5
- Child is not diagnosed with autism, oppositional defiant disorder, or another neurological/intellectual disorder
- Can speak and understand English
- Able to travel to New Haven, CT
- Not in the second or third trimester of pregnancy
What to Expect:
First Visit:
- You will have an in-person appointment at 100 College St., New Haven, CT, which will take approximately 45 minutes.
- During this visit, participants will wear heart rate sensors, watch a video of animals, and do some puzzles.
- Both the child and the parent will wear sensors to measure their heart rates.
Second Visit:
- There will be a remote appointment scheduled 6 months to 1 year after the initial visit.
Location:
- Participants need to be able to travel to 100 College St., New Haven, CT
Participants will be compensated for their participation.
Compensation:
- Participants will receive $20 for their participation.
- An additional $10 for travel.
- A parking voucher for the 100 College St. garage.
- Children will receive a small prize.
Transportation Options:
- Travel compensation includes $10 for travel costs.
- Parking costs are covered if you park in the 100 College St. garage.
- Instructions for driving and taking the train are provided.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.