Peer interventions for preschoolers with autism
Examining Adaptive Peer-mediated Interventions for Preschoolers With Autism Spectrum Disorder and Limited or no Spoken Language: A Sequential Multiple Assignment Randomized Trial
This study is testing different ways to help preschoolers with autism who don’t speak much improve their communication skills by using peer support and special tools.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 132 (estimated) |
| Ages | 3 Years to 6 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Kansas Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Kansas City, Kansas and 1 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT05799599 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study evaluates peer-mediated interventions for preschool children aged 3 to 6 years with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) who have limited or no spoken language. Using a Sequential Multiple Assignment Randomized Trial (SMART) design, the study will assess the effectiveness of various intervention strategies, including the use of speech-generating devices, to enhance communication skills. The research will involve 132 children with ASD and 264 peers, focusing on improving social communication and reducing behavioral problems through tailored interventions. The study aims to adapt interventions based on children's responses to ensure optimal outcomes.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are preschool children aged 3 to 6 years diagnosed with ASD who have limited or no spoken language and access to peers without disabilities.
Not a fit: Patients with significant physical, sensory, or motor impairments that prevent interaction with peers may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could significantly improve communication skills and social interactions for preschoolers with autism.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown positive outcomes with peer-mediated interventions for children with ASD, indicating a promising approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * ASD diagnosis * limited or no spoken language defined by less than 20 functional, spontaneous words * currently using or a candidate for a speech-generating device * access to peers without disabilities * English as the primary language spoken at home Exclusion Criteria: * co-morbid or major medical conditions other than ASD, based on caregiver and teacher report * significant physical, sensory, or motor impairments that would prevent playing with another child * uncorrected visual or hearing impairments that would cause difficulty following peer instructions * a lack of symbol discrimination skills
Where this trial is running
Kansas City, Kansas and 1 other locations
- Juniper Gardens Children's Project — Kansas City, Kansas, United States (Recruiting)
- University of North Carolina — Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States (Not_yet_recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Katherine S Bourque, PhD
- Email: thiemann@ku.edu
- Phone: 9138978445
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.