What's it like to participate in lab?

If you express interest in our in-lab studies, we will contact you with information about the study or studies your child is eligible for, including duration, tasks, and the study's purpose. From here, you will have the opportunity to review this information and decide if you're interested in having your child participate. For scheduling details, please click here. Leading up to your appointment time, we will provide you with clear directions to our parking lot next to the building.

Upon arrival, one of our research assistants will meet you in the parking lot, and they will provide you with a free parking pass. The next steps of your session will unfold as follows:

Start of Session
1. Follow the researcher to our lab playroom
2. Take some time to settle in, and let your child explore the variety of toys available to help them adjust to the new environment.
Instructions/Consent
1. The researcher will provide a thorough explanation of the study activity, including its duration, your role, and your child's involvement.
2. You will have the chance to ask any questions and, if you have not done so earlier, complete a consent form before the session begins. In some instances, we may send consent forms via email for you to complete before your visit to the lab. Further details about this process will be provided after you book an appointment time.
Study Activity
1. Your child will then engage in the study activity, which can take the form of games, videos, or enjoyable activities designed for children.
2. If, at any point, your child does not wish to continue, we will end the study activity right away.
Gift/Thank You
1. After your child participates in the study, they will receive a small gift such as a book or T-shirt.
2. If you have any additional questions after the study activity, your researcher will be happy to answer them.
End of Session
1. The researcher will guide you back to your car, they will collect the parking pass and they’ll say goodbye!