Understanding how sensory responsiveness affects language development in young siblings of children with autism

Sensory Project in Infant/Toddler Siblings of Children with Autism (Project SPIS)

['FUNDING_R01'] · VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-11178012

This study is looking at how babies and toddlers, especially those who have siblings with autism, respond to their senses and how that might affect their ability to learn language, with the hope of finding new ways to help them communicate better.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorVANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NASHVILLE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11178012 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how sensory responsiveness in infants and toddlers, particularly those who are siblings of children with autism, may influence their language development. The study aims to identify novel predictors of language acquisition by examining the relationship between sensory experiences and language skills. By focusing on early sensory responsiveness, the research seeks to understand how these factors may impact a child's ability to engage socially and communicate effectively. The findings could lead to new interventions that enhance language outcomes for these children.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are infants and toddlers who are siblings of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.

Not a fit: Children who do not have siblings with autism or those who are outside the age range of 0-11 years may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide insights that lead to improved language development strategies for young children at risk of autism.

How similar studies have performed: While the concept of sensory responsiveness affecting language development is promising, evidence supporting this specific approach is still limited, indicating a novel area of exploration.

Where this research is happening

NASHVILLE, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: autism spectral disorder, autism spectrum disorder

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.