Peer interventions for preschoolers with autism

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

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.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

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 it's running

• 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

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.