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Standing Balance: A Foundation for Healthy Development

The ABBEL Research Division of the Rehabilitation Institute at Sinai is inviting families to join a study focused on how children ages 5 to 8 maintain their balance while standing.

 

By taking part, your child will help researchers better understand how balance typically develops at different ages. This information may support earlier recognition of delayed or atypical development, therefore leading to earlier intervention.

Child on Standing Mat

Who Can Join

Children may be eligible to take part in this study if they:

  1. Are 5, 6, 7 or 8 years old 
  2. Are developing typically
  3. Have no known medical or developmental diagnoses
  4. Have had no lower limb injuries in the past six months
  5. Have had no surgeries in the past six months

If you are unsure whether your child qualifies, we encourage you to reach out – our research team is happy to answer any questions or help determine eligibility.

Email Phone: 443-996-1030
Study Location

Study Location

All study visits will take place in the Pediatric Motor Development Lab at Sinai Hospital.

 

Our testing room is designed to look and feel like a pediatric exam room, similar to what your child might experience at a regular doctor’s office. Researchers will wear white coats to mirror a typical pediatric office setting. 

What Participation Looks Like

One Visit | About 60 minutes

 

You and your child will visit our Pediatric Motor Development Lab for a one-time paid visit. This visit includes short standing activities, simple body measurements and built-in breaks to keep things comfortable and fun.

Standing Activities

 

Your child will be asked to stand barefoot while staying relaxed and still.

  • Five standing trials in total
  • Each trial will last up to one minute
  • Breaks are offered in-between trials

Body Measurements

 

We will take a few simple body measurements, similar to what happens at a routine pediatric visit.

  • Height and weight
  • Torso, leg and foot lengths
  • Head circumference

Parent Questionnaires

 

While your child completes the aforementioned activities, you will be asked to complete two brief forms regarding your child’s development. 

  • Health History Form
  • Developmental Assessment – DP-4

Equipment Used

We use safe, non-invasive equipment to help us understand how children maintain balance while standing.

Force Plate

Force Plate


This platform rests on the ground and measures small shifts in balance. This will be used for three standing trials.

Wearable Sensor

Wearable Sensors


This is a small lightweight device, similar in size to a smartwatch, that also measures changes in balance. This will be worn for three standing trials, as your child stands on the force plate or on the ground. 

What Families Receive

$60 in gift cards

Small prizes for completing 
standing trials 

Vouchers for free
on-site parking

Developmental assessment results 

(for parents/pediatrician) 

Meet Our Research Team

We are excited to meet you and your child! 
Our team is here to make your visit safe, comfortable and enjoyable.

 

Allie Chenowith, BS 

Lead Investigator


Alexandra “Allie” is the lead researcher on this project and will guide your child through the visit from start to finish. She will work directly with your child during the standing activities, take simple body measurements and provide clear instructions and encouragement to help your child feel comfortable and confident.

 

Jordan Wickstrom, PhD

Principal Investigator


Dr. Wickstrom oversees the study and supports all research procedures. During your visit, she will review the parent questionnaires with you, answer any questions you may have and ensure that all study protocols are followed correctly. She will also manage and monitor the research equipment to maintain accurate and reliable data collection.