Puzzle power: study tests if play sharpens spatial skills in down syndrome
NCT ID NCT05332912
First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study looked at whether doing spatial activities like puzzles, block building, and hide-and-seek can improve mental rotation and perspective-taking in people with Down syndrome. 84 adolescents and young adults with Down syndrome, plus typically developing children, took part. After up to eight sessions of these activities, researchers measured changes in spatial abilities to see if they could be trained.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could point toward simple, fun activities that help people with Down syndrome improve everyday skills like navigating and using tools.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small, early study with only 84 participants and no control group, so results may not be widely applicable. The improvements seen might not last or translate to real-world benefits.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
Get updates
Get notified about this study
Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for DOWN SYNDROME are added.
By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use
Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Show contact details
Enter your email to view the contact information for this study.
By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use
Locations
-
University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa
Tuscaloosa, Alabama, 35405, United States
More trials for these conditions
Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.
- A jolt to the brain may unlock words: testing tDCS for language in down syndrome
- Can a simple harness help babies with down syndrome take their first steps sooner?
- Unlocking fitness secrets: motor skills key for kids with down syndrome?
- Can early parent coaching help infants with rare genetic disorders thrive?
- Could a chatty flowerpot robot reduce caregiver dependence?
- Therapy holds promise for boosting mobility in kids with down syndrome