Understanding language development in autistic toddlers from diverse backgrounds
Official title: EMERGE: Early Markers of Expressive and Receptive (language) Growth in Ethnically diverse autistic toddlers
Funded at University of California Los Angeles · NIH-10883032 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how young children with autism, especially those from different backgrounds and families with fewer resources, learn to talk, so we can find ways to help them start speaking during the important ages of 18 to 30 months.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project start | August 23, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $664,249 |
| NIH project number | 1R01DC021174-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10883032 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are autistic toddlers aged 18-30 months, especially those from low-income and ethnically diverse backgrounds.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are older than 30 months or do not have a diagnosis of autism may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the early language development of autistic toddlers, particularly focusing on those from ethnically diverse and economically disadvantaged backgrounds. It aims to identify why some children begin to speak while others do not during the critical language learning period between 18-30 months. By analyzing language growth patterns, the study seeks to optimize early interventions that can support these children in achieving better language outcomes. The research will involve assessments and data collection from participating families to understand the factors influencing language development.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved early interventions that enhance language development in autistic toddlers, particularly those from marginalized communities.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that early language interventions can significantly improve outcomes for children with language delays, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Los Angeles
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kasari, Connie L. — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Kasari, Connie 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.