Improving communication skills in toddlers at risk for language delays

Optimizing Intervention Options for Toddlers with Early Social Communication Delays

NIH-funded research University of Texas at Austin · NIH-10728442

This study is looking at ways to help toddlers who have siblings with autism and might struggle with talking and communicating, by creating a flexible program that parents can use to support their child's social skills and communication as they grow.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Texas at Austin NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Austin, United States)
Project IDNIH-10728442 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on toddlers who are siblings of children with autism and are at risk for language and communication delays. It aims to develop and test an adaptive intervention that parents can use to support their child's social communication development. The study will monitor the children's progress and adjust the intervention based on their evolving needs. By involving parents in the intervention process, the research seeks to enhance both child and family outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are toddlers aged 0-3 years who are siblings of children diagnosed with autism.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have siblings with autism or who are outside the age range may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective communication interventions for toddlers at risk of language delays, improving their developmental outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using adaptive interventions for developmental delays, suggesting that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

Austin, 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 Communication Disorders
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.