Location: La Red Health Center, Inc. 21444 Carmean Way, Georgetown, DE 19947
Lead Researchers: Lauren Covington, PhD, RN, and Erica Allen
IRB/HREC: This study has been reviewed and approved by the University of Delaware Institutional Review Board

Many parents want the best sleep for their little ones, but sometimes the advice out there doesn’t fit real life. Researchers want to better understand the challenges and cultural traditions that shape how Black mothers help their babies and toddlers sleep. By listening to your experiences, they hope to create safer, healthier sleep strategies that truly reflect the needs of Delaware families.

If you’re a Black mother with a child under 3, your story matters. Join a paid research study to share your experiences in a relaxed, respectful setting with other moms. Free childcare, snacks, and transportation support are provided. Help make sleep guidance more inclusive. Sign up today to have your voice heard and earn $50 for your time.

• Participants will be compensated up to $50 in gift cards for participating in the focus group.
• Participants will be contributing valuable information that may help researchers better understand and support Black parents experiencing sleep challenges in the future.
• Participants will be helping to advance medical research.

• You will receive a detailed outline of all details of the study, including risks and procedures, and you will be given the chance to ask study staff questions before you decide whether to participate.
• If you decide to participate in the study and later feel that you no longer wish to be part of it, you can withdraw at any time
• Your records relating to this study and any other information received will be kept strictly confidential, except as required by the law.

Who Can Participate:

• Must self-identify as a Black mother aged 18 or older
• Must currently be mothering an infant or toddler (0–36 months)
• Must live in Sussex County, Delaware
• Must be able to read and speak English
• Must be willing and able to participate in 1 focus group on November 13, 2025, between 5:30 pm and 7:30 pm

The study team will explain the research in its entirety, but some details include:

• Participants will be asked to take part in one focus group to share their experiences and insights as mothers.
• Participants may be asked to complete short surveys about demographics, mood, and anxiety using standard questionnaires.