Training for caregivers to help children with social communication issues

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 program, called More Than Words®, is designed to empower parents of children with autism or social communication challenges by training them to facilitate their child's communication development. Delivered by a speech-language pathologist, the program includes 13 weeks of virtual sessions that focus on enhancing social communication skills in everyday contexts. The intervention aims to leverage parents' knowledge of their children to promote effective communication strategies and increase the child's opportunities for social interaction. The program has been updated to align with the latest evidence and can be accessed online, making it more feasible for families.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion criteria:

1. The child is under 48 months of age at the time of study enrolment.
2. The child has delays in social communication and play skills according to the clinical assessment of the child's community SLP.
3. The parent (or other primary caregiver) has a smart phone, tablet, or computer with webcam and internet access to attend the virtual MTW sessions and complete study measures
4. The parent is available to attend the 13-week virtual MTW program (which includes 9 online group sessions on Saturday mornings or Monday evenings).
5. The parent is comfortable communicating and filling out forms in English.

Exclusion Criteria:

Failure to meet the inclusion criteria outlined above.

Where it's running

• Western University
  London, Ontario, Canada Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Janis Oram, PhD, S-LP(C)
• Email: janis.oram@uwo.ca
• Phone: 519-661-2111

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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.