Using a social robot to improve communication skills in children with autism

Interactive Mirroring Games wIth sOcial Robot (IOGIOCO) and Robotic System Adapted Into a Clinical Scale (RISCALE)

Not applicable Interventional Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi Onlus · NCT06855446

This study is testing if a robot can help children with autism improve their communication skills through fun games and interactions.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment40 (estimated)
Ages18 Months to 72 Months
SexAll
SponsorFondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi Onlus Academic / other
Locations1 site (Milan)
Trial IDNCT06855446 on ClinicalTrials.gov

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.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are preschool children aged 2-6 years diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Not a fit: Patients with known genetic or metabolic diseases may not benefit from this study.

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 performed: Previous pilot studies have shown promising results with similar robotic interventions in children with autism, indicating potential for success.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnosis

Exclusion Criteria:

* known genetic or metabolic diseases

Where this trial is running

Milan

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Autism Spectrum Disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.