Training toddlers with autism to improve imitation and rhythm sensitivity
Musical Rhythm Sensitivity to Scaffold Social Engagement in Autism Spectrum Disorder
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
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Months to 36 Months |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Vanderbilt University Medical Center Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Nashville, Tennessee) |
| Trial ID | NCT05880225 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
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.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are toddlers aged 18-36 months with a diagnosis of autism or autism spectrum disorder.
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.
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 performed: 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.
Eligibility criteria
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 this trial is running
Nashville, Tennessee
- 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
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.