This study is looking at different ways to help preschool children (ages 3-6) with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) who have very limited or no spoken language. It tests three behavioral interventions called Stay-Play-Talk Basic, Stay-Play-Talk Plus, and Stay-Play-Talk Advanced. These interventions involve teaching peers (other children without disabilities) to help children with ASD communicate, sometimes using a speech-generating device (SGD). The main goal is to see if these interventions increase how often children with ASD communicate with their peers. To join, children must have an ASD diagnosis, speak fewer than 20 words, be able to use or be a candidate for a speech-generating device, and have English as their primary language at home. This study is currently recruiting participants.

Study design

This is an interventional study planning to enroll 132 preschoolers with ASD. It uses a Sequential Multiple Assignment Randomized Trial (SMART) design, meaning participants may be re-randomized to a different intervention based on their early response.

What's involved

Children will receive interventions and their communication will be measured at the start, and then at 5, 12, and 16 weeks after treatment begins.

Compensation

Not stated in the trial record.

Follow-up

Participants are followed for 16 weeks after the start of treatment to measure changes in communication.

AI-generated from the public study record. Only the study team can confirm whether you're eligible — confirm details with them before making decisions.