Using a social robot to improve communication skills in children with autism
Official title: Interactive Mirroring Games wIth sOcial Robot (IOGIOCO) and Robotic System Adapted Into a Clinical Scale (RISCALE)
Run by Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi ETS · NCT06855446 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if a robot can help children with autism improve their communication skills through fun games and interactions.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Months to 72 Months |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi ETS Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Milan) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | July 14, 2023 |
| Main results expected | April 2025 |
| Study ends | May 2025 |
| Registry record updated | March 3, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT06855446 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates for this study are preschool children aged 2-6 years diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with known genetic or metabolic diseases 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 evaluates the effectiveness of a training protocol using the humanoid robot NAO to enhance socio-communicative skills in children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The intervention involves interactive mirroring games that promote nonverbal communication through triadic interactions between the child, the robot, and a therapist. The training is structured into six levels, starting with familiarization and progressing to more complex tasks. The study aims to assess improvements in communicative gestures and social skills using a standardized scale.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly enhance communication abilities in children with autism, leading to better social interactions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous pilot studies have shown promising results with similar robotic interventions in children with autism, indicating potential for success.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnosis Exclusion Criteria: * known genetic or metabolic diseases
Where it's running
-
Santa Maria Nascente, Milano, Italy 20148
Milan, Italy Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Chiara Fanciullacci
- Email: ctu@dongnocchi.it
- Phone: 0039055 7393653
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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.