Infant Sleep Research Study
Researchers at Queens College of the City University of New York are conducting a study on infant sleep and early brain development for families in New York City and surrounding areas.
Fast Facts
Pregnant or Within 3 Months Postpartum
Compensation
Provided Up To $240
Conducted in
NYC
Study Background
Early sleep patterns play a vital role in shaping brain development and long-term child outcomes.
During the first years of life, the brain develops rapidly. Sleep is believed to support important processes such as memory consolidation, emotional regulation, and learning. However, researchers are still working to understand exactly how brain activity during sleep contributes to healthy cognitive and social development in infants and young children.
In this longitudinal study, our team follows families from infancy through early childhood to better understand how early sleep patterns relate to later developmental milestones. By collecting brainwave and movement recordings during infancy, along with interactive play-based assessments as children grow, we hope to advance scientific knowledge that may inform future research and support for families.
Study Background
Early sleep patterns play a vital role in shaping brain development and long-term child outcomes.
During the first years of life, the brain develops rapidly. Sleep is believed to support important processes such as memory consolidation, emotional regulation, and learning. However, researchers are still working to understand exactly how brain activity during sleep contributes to healthy cognitive and social development in infants and young children.
In this longitudinal study, our team follows families from infancy through early childhood to better understand how early sleep patterns relate to later developmental milestones. By collecting brainwave and movement recordings during infancy, along with interactive play-based assessments as children grow, we hope to advance scientific knowledge that may inform future research and support for families.
Additional Information
This study aims to better understand how brain processes during infant sleep are connected to child development in the first three years of life.
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Pregnant or within 3 months postpartum
If you choose to participate, here’s what to expect:
Step 1: Home Visit (Around 1 Month Old)
A researcher will visit your home (4–5 hours).
We will collect infant brainwave and movement recordings.
You will complete questionnaires about your child’s development.
You may take breaks or stop at any time.
Steps 2–4: Lab Visits (6, 12, and 18 Months)
You and your child will visit our research office (1–2 hours each visit).
Your child will participate in play-based activities and developmental assessments.
Step 5: Final Visit (36 Months)
A longer session (4–5 hours).
Additional interactive activities and assessments.
There are no known physical risks. If your child becomes distressed at any point, you may ask us to stop.
As a participant, you may receive up to $240.
In addition, we will:
Reimburse up to $100 per session for reasonable travel and parking expenses (with receipts)
Offer to arrange transportation (e.g., car service such as Uber or taxi)
Cover all study-related costs
There is no cost to you or your child to participate.