Understanding how bilingualism affects language skills in autistic children
Official title: Predictors of language skills in bilingual children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
Funded at University of Texas Rio Grande Valley · NIH-10788376 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how being bilingual affects the language skills of children with autism, especially those from different backgrounds, and it aims to help parents and communities understand how speaking two languages can be beneficial for these kids.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Rio Grande Valley NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Edinburg, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2022 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $148,000 |
| NIH project number | 5SC2GM144163-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10788376 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are bilingual children aged 0-11 years who have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are monolingual or do not have a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of bilingualism on the language development of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). It aims to identify various factors that influence language skills in bilingual autistic children, particularly those from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. The study will involve adapting research materials and recruitment strategies to ensure cultural and linguistic competence, engaging parents and community stakeholders in the process. By comparing bilingual autistic children to their typically developing peers, the research seeks to clarify misconceptions about language impairments related to bilingualism.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better identification and support for bilingual autistic children, ensuring they receive appropriate services.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding language development in bilingual children, but this specific focus on bilingual autistic children is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Edinburg, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Montiel-Nava, Cecilia — University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
- Study coordinator: Montiel-Nava, Cecilia
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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.