Improving early intervention services for children with autism

4/4: Improving the Part C Early Intervention Service Delivery System for Children with ASD: A Randomized Clinical Trial

NIH-funded research University of Massachusetts Boston · NIH-10851005

This study is testing a fun and friendly way to help young children with Autism Spectrum Disorder by training caregivers to use a special play technique, so that more kids under 3 can get the support they need to thrive.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Massachusetts Boston NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10851005 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to enhance the delivery of early intervention services for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) by training providers in a specific behavioral intervention called Reciprocal Imitation Training (RIT). The study will involve a randomized controlled trial to assess the effectiveness of this training in improving outcomes for children under age 3 who show early signs of ASD. By focusing on a play-based and family-friendly approach, the research seeks to increase the frequency and quality of interventions provided to these children. The ultimate goal is to ensure that more children receive the specialized support they need during critical developmental years.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children under the age of 3 who exhibit early signs of Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Not a fit: Children who are older than 3 years or do not show early signs of autism may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved developmental outcomes for young children with autism by enhancing the quality and accessibility of early intervention services.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success with similar behavioral interventions in improving outcomes for children with developmental disorders, making this approach promising.

Where this research is happening

Boston, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.