Training toddlers with autism to improve imitation and rhythm sensitivity
Official title: Musical Rhythm Sensitivity to Scaffold Social Engagement in Autism Spectrum Disorder
Run by Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NCT05880225 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if adding music to a training program helps toddlers with autism learn to imitate better and if their ability to respond to rhythms affects how well they do.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Months to 36 Months |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Vanderbilt University Medical Center Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Nashville, Tennessee) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | July 3, 2023 |
| Main results expected | April 30, 2027 |
| Study ends | April 30, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | May 20, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT05880225 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are toddlers aged 18-36 months with a diagnosis of autism or autism spectrum disorder.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with major hearing or visual impairments, seizure disorders, genetic syndromes, or those born at a gestational age of 34 weeks or less may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study investigates how rhythm sensitivity can predict the effectiveness of a naturalistic developmental behavioral intervention (NDBI) in toddlers diagnosed with autism. Participants aged 18-36 months will be randomized to receive either Reciprocal Imitation Training (RIT) or a music-enhanced version of RIT, which incorporates musical elements into the training. Throughout the intervention, toddlers will engage with videos designed to assess their eye gaze and rhythm sensitivity. The study aims to determine if children's responsiveness to these interventions correlates with their sensitivity to social rhythms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance social communication skills in autistic toddlers, leading to improved developmental outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown promise in using rhythmic and musical interventions to support social communication in children with autism, suggesting this approach may be effective.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * diagnosis of autism / autism spectrum disorder * 18-36 months of age Exclusion Criteria: * Major hearing or visual impairment (e.g., congenital nystagmus), seizure disorder, genetic syndromes, or gestational age \<=34 weeks.
Where it's running
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Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Nashville, Tennessee, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Miriam Lense — Vanderbilt University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Miriam Lense
- Email: miriam.lense@vumc.org
- Phone: 615-322-3086
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.