Effectiveness of Robot-Assisted Intervention and Sensory Integration Therapy in Enhancing Social-Emotional Skills in Children With Autism

Launched by NATIONAL TAIWAN UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL · Dec 27, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is looking at how effective a smart robot, called Kebbi Air, is in helping young children with autism improve their social and emotional skills. Researchers want to see if interacting with this robot can help children aged 4 to 6 years, who have been diagnosed with autism or are suspected to have it, more than traditional therapy that focuses on sensory integration, which helps children manage their emotions and sensory experiences. The children will be divided into two groups: one will work with the robot while the other will receive the standard therapy. Over 12 weeks, the researchers will assess the children’s progress in areas like handling emotions and engaging socially.

To be eligible for this trial, children must be between 4 and 6 years old and have a diagnosis or suspicion of autism. They should have a certain level of cognitive ability, meaning they can learn and understand new things. Children who have other serious health issues that could affect their participation won't be included. Parents can expect their children to take part in engaging activities with the robot or therapy sessions, and the researchers will measure the children's improvements before and after the program. This study aims to find new and exciting ways to support children with autism in developing important social and emotional skills.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Children aged 4-6 years, regardless of gender.
• • 2. Diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or suspected ASD.
• • 3. Cognitive ability: Developmental Quotient (DQ) ≥ 70, as assessed by the Comprehensive 4. Developmental Inventory for Infants and Toddlers (CDIIT).Social-emotional ability: DQ \< 85, as assessed by CDIIT, indicating challenges in emotional regulation and social skills.
• • 5. No significant physical or psychological conditions that could interfere with participation in the intervention.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Children younger than 4 years or older than 6 years.
• • 2. Cognitive ability: DQ \< 70, as assessed by CDIIT, indicating limited learning potential.
• • 3. Social-emotional ability: DQ ≥ 85, as assessed by CDIIT, indicating normal emotional and social functioning.
• • 4. Any physical or psychological condition deemed by the investigators to interfere with the intervention or assessments.