How can we improve child and family outcomes through access to effective parent training in early intervention settings?
This study is designed to examine the effectiveness of parent-mediated Reciprocal Imitation Training (RIT) for improving child outcomes and family quality of life. It will be conducted in community EI programs across 4 states: Washington, Massachusetts, Michigan, and Illinois. We are using a randomized controlled design to identify both treatment effects and the underlying mechanisms through which RIT improves children’s social communication. In addition, we are collecting data from providers that will help us optimize the scalability of RIT across the Part C Early Intervention system.
Who is Eligible?
Primary caregivers of children aged 16 to 30 months who are receiving services from a participating Early Intervention provider.
Requirements
Study participation will involve completing play-based assessments and survey questions 3 times over a 9-month period. Child assessments will be conducted in the home by caregivers, guided by project staff. Enrolled caregivers will also be asked to record 3 sessions with your EI provider and to complete a one-time, semi-structured interview.
Participants will receive $150 per study event (up to $450 total), $25 for EI sessions that are video recorded (up to $75), and $30 for the semi-structured interview. Total compensation for completing all study activities is $555.