Understanding language development in children with autism
Official title: Predictors of variable language development in autism
Funded at Boston Children's Hospital · NIH-11021382 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how children with autism learn to talk and what helps or makes it harder for them, so we can find better ways to support their language skills.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston Children's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $489,500 |
| NIH project number | 1R21DC022240-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11021382 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-6 years who have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are older than 6 years or do not have an autism diagnosis may not receive benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how language development varies in children with autism, focusing on identifying factors that influence their language skills. By analyzing data from 165 autistic children, the study aims to uncover neurobiological, behavioral, and environmental elements that affect language acquisition. The researchers will use advanced techniques like EEG and language assessments to pinpoint early indicators of language delays and understand what helps or hinders progress. This information could lead to better interventions tailored to support language development in young children with autism.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for enhancing language skills in children with autism, ultimately benefiting their overall development and quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in identifying early predictors of language development in autism, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Boston Children's Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wilkinson, Carol Lee — Boston Children's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Wilkinson, Carol Lee
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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.