Using robots to help children with autism interact better

Adapted and Individualized Intelligent Robotic Interactions to the Ability Spectrum of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder

Not applicable Interventional University Hospital, Montpellier · NCT05991791

This study is testing whether using social robots in play sessions can help children with autism improve their social skills and interactions.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment8 (estimated)
Ages2 Years to 5 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity Hospital, Montpellier Academic / other
Locations1 site (Montpellier)
Trial IDNCT05991791 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study explores the use of social robots as a therapeutic tool for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) by implementing the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM). The intervention involves individualized, play-based sessions where children engage with robots under the guidance of trained practitioners via a telepresence system. The goal is to enhance social interactions and adaptability during therapy sessions, addressing the varying responses and interests of the children. While previous studies suggest benefits from robotic interventions, this study aims to provide clearer insights into their long-term effectiveness.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are children diagnosed with ASD who are currently receiving care under the ESDM model in the Hérault department of France.

Not a fit: Patients not affiliated with the French social security system or those participating in other intervention programs may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve social interaction skills in children with autism, enhancing their overall quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with robotic interventions for children with ASD, but this specific approach is still being evaluated for its long-term impact.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patient living in the Hérault department (France),
* Patient with a diagnosis of ASD confirmed by a psychiatrist or a psychologist and receiving current care according to the ESDM model in the MPEA Peyre Plantade child psychiatry service.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients

  * Failure to obtain written informed consent after a cooling-off period
  * Participating in another type of program other than ESDM
  * Not being affiliated to a French social security system or being a beneficiary of such a system
* Therapist

  * History of epilepsy for health professionals (therapists)

Where this trial is running

Montpellier

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 DisorderAutism spectrum disorderchildreninterventional careroboticstelepresence
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.