Evaluating how simplified language helps young autistic children learn

How Single-Word and Telegraphic Simplification Affects Language Processing and Word Learning in Young Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder

NA · Michigan State University · NCT05707923

This study is testing if using simpler language helps young autistic children learn words better than using full sentences.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment104 (estimated)
Ages1 Year to 4 Years
SexAll
SponsorMichigan State University (other)
Locations1 site (East Lansing, Michigan)
Trial IDNCT05707923 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to experimentally assess how different forms of linguistic simplification, such as single-word and telegraphic speech, impact language processing and word learning in young children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The research will compare the effectiveness of these simplified language forms against full grammatical utterances. It will also explore child characteristics that may influence the effectiveness of these interventions. The goal is to identify the most effective language strategies for enhancing comprehension and learning in this population.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are children aged 1-4 years who have existing or suspected autism spectrum disorder and speak English as their primary language.

Not a fit: Patients with known genetic conditions, cerebral palsy, acquired brain injuries, or uncorrected vision or hearing impairments may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more effective language interventions for young children with autism, improving their communication skills and learning outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results in using simplified language interventions for children with ASD, suggesting that this approach may be effective.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Existing or suspected autism spectrum disorder, confirmed through ADOS-2
* English as primary language
* 1-4 years old

Exclusion Criteria:

* Known genetic condition (e.g., Down syndrome, fragile X)
* Cerebral palsy
* Acquired brain injury
* Uncorrected vision or hearing impairment

Where this trial is running

East Lansing, Michigan

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Autism Spectrum Disorder, language, autism, intervention, processing, learning, early childhood, treatment

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.