Identifying predictors of verbal communication in children with autism

Discovering novel predictors of minimally verbal outcomes in autism through computational modeling

NIH-funded research Georgia Institute of Technology · NIH-11086036

This study is looking at how young children with autism communicate before they start talking, to see if we can predict who might need extra help to become verbal, so we can provide the right support early on to improve their communication skills.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionGeorgia Institute of Technology NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Atlanta, United States)
Project IDNIH-11086036 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to develop new models that analyze the early communication skills of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to predict their likelihood of becoming verbally communicative. By focusing on prelinguistic communication skills such as gestures, vocalizations, and joint attention, the study seeks to identify critical stages in development that indicate whether a child may remain minimally verbal. The findings could help tailor early interventions and therapies to improve communication outcomes for these children. The project will utilize advanced computational methods to assess risk factors and guide intervention strategies effectively.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder who exhibit delays in prelinguistic communication skills.

Not a fit: Children who are already verbally communicative or do not have a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved early intervention strategies that enhance communication skills in children with autism.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using computational modeling to understand developmental pathways in autism, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Atlanta, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions autism spectral disorderautism spectrum disorderAutistic Disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.