Language, Engagement and Play Laboratory

We focus on enhancing early development for children with autism spectrum disorder, by integrating applied behavior analysis with developmental principles to promote play and language skills.

Our mission is to enhance the development and quality of life for young children with autism and their families. We apply behavioral and developmental approaches to design socially valid interventions that are effective, efficient, and culturally responsive.

Approach

Our approach integrates behavioral and developmental principles within naturalistic and structured settings. We use observational coding, behavioral measures, developmental assessments, and behavioral assessments to evaluate outcomes. Interventions are designed to support foundational play and language skills while promoting collaboration with families and caregivers.

Our Team

Our LEAP Lab includes graduate and undergraduate students, research assistants, and collaborators. Students gain hands-on experience with data collection, coding behavioral data, literature reviews, intervention planning, and lab discussions. Our aim is to foster students' skill development in applied research, early intervention strategies, and collaborative problem-solving.

Faculty, Staff and Student Research

Explore research publications focused on many aspects of disability performed by MMI's faculty, staff and students in the Emotional Neuroscience Research Laboratory.

• Toni Rose Agana, PhD, BCBA-D, LBA