Screening for autism in childcare centers
Official title: Autism Screening in Childcare Settings
Funded at Drexel University · NIH-10766256 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how we can better spot autism in young children by having childcare providers help with screenings, making it easier for families to get the support they need, especially in communities that might not have enough resources.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Drexel University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | January 20, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $189,375 |
| NIH project number | 5R21HD108892-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10766256 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years, particularly those from minority and low-income families who may not have access to traditional screening methods.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are already receiving regular autism screenings or those outside the targeted age range may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving the early detection of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) by implementing screening in childcare settings. It aims to address barriers faced by pediatricians during well-child visits, such as time constraints and lack of confidence in the screening process. By involving Early Childhood Education Providers (ECEPs), who interact extensively with children, the study seeks to create effective strategies for identifying ASD in underserved communities. The goal is to enhance access to early diagnosis and intervention for children who may otherwise be overlooked.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier identification and intervention for children with autism, improving their long-term outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: While there have been some studies on screening in childcare settings, this approach is still relatively novel and has not been widely implemented.
Where this research is happening
-
Drexel University
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Robins, Diana L — Drexel University
- Study coordinator: Robins, Diana L
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.