Improving outcomes for young autistic children through parent interventions

Optimizing Outcomes Through Sequencing Parent-Mediated Interventions for Young Children With Autism

Phase 2 Interventional Northwestern University · NCT05926687

This study is testing the best way to help parents use two different strategies to improve communication and behavior in young children with autism.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 2
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment184 (estimated)
Ages18 Months to 48 Months
SexAll
SponsorNorthwestern University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Evanston, Illinois)
Trial IDNCT05926687 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to optimize the sequencing of two parent-mediated interventions for young children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD): a social communication intervention and a disruptive behavior intervention. By employing a sequential, multiple assignment, randomized trial design, the researchers will evaluate how best to implement these interventions to enhance communication and behavior regulation in children. The study will also explore factors that may influence the effectiveness of these interventions, focusing on the role of parents in supporting their child's development. This innovative approach seeks to address the complexities of teaching multiple strategies to parents, ultimately aiming for better long-term outcomes for children with ASD.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are children aged 18 to 48 months diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder who have supportive caregivers willing to learn intervention strategies.

Not a fit: Patients who may not benefit from this study include those with other known diagnoses or disabilities, or those who do not have caregivers willing to participate.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved communication and behavior outcomes for young children with autism, benefiting their overall development.

How similar studies have performed: While both interventions have shown efficacy individually, this adaptive intervention approach is novel and has not been previously evaluated.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Child is between 18 and 48 months old
* Child scores above the research cutoff for ASD on the TELE-ASD-PEDS
* Child has no other known diagnosis or disability at study entry
* Child has normal vision
* Child is exposed to English at least 50% of the time
* Child has a caregiver willing to learn the intervention strategies
* Caregiver wants help supporting their child's social communication and behavior regulation
* Caregiver understands conversational English well enough to participate in caregiver instruction

Where this trial is running

Evanston, Illinois

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.
Conditions AutismAutism Spectrum Disorderinterventionearly interventiontoddlersautisticautismvirtual
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.