Caregiver Training to Support Children With Social Communication Challenges

Launched by WESTERN UNIVERSITY, CANADA · Mar 26, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is looking at a program called "More Than Words," which is designed to help parents support their young children with social communication challenges, such as those with Autism Spectrum Disorder. The program, led by a speech-language pathologist, teaches parents how to encourage their child's social skills in everyday situations. The trial aims to test the latest version of this program, especially how effective it is when delivered online. Researchers want to see how well the program works for families and understand the best ways to deliver it.

To participate in this study, children must be under 4 years old and have some delays in social communication, as determined by a speech-language professional. Parents need to have access to a device with internet and be available for the 13-week online program, which includes group sessions on weekends or evenings. This study is currently not recruiting participants, but it will help prepare for a larger trial in the future, ensuring that the program is set up effectively for families who need support.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion criteria:
• • 1. The child is under 48 months of age at the time of study enrolment.
• • 2. The child has delays in social communication and play skills according to the clinical assessment of the child's community SLP.
• • 3. The parent (or other primary caregiver) has a smart phone, tablet, or computer with webcam and internet access to attend the virtual MTW sessions and complete study measures
• • 4. The parent is available to attend the 13-week virtual MTW program (which includes 9 online group sessions on Saturday mornings or Monday evenings).
• • 5. The parent is comfortable communicating and filling out forms in English.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Failure to meet the inclusion criteria outlined above.