Empowering Caregivers Study

This research study examines the effects of teaching caregivers of children with profound autism to use picture-based activity schedules on the children’s ability to complete tasks independently.

Eligibility Survey

If you are interested in participating in this study, we would like to ask you several short questions to see if you might be eligible. These questions will take about five minutes to complete.

Answer Eligibility Questions

Conditions to Participate

Your child may be eligible for this study if:

1. They are 10-17 years old.
2. They have confirmed autism spectrum disorder and intellectual disability.
3. They can complete three to ten tasks with assistance or prompting.
4. English is the primary language for the child and at least one caregiver.

More Details

This research focuses on training caregivers to use picture-based activity schedules to support their children with profound autism. Activity schedules are an evidence-based strategy used to help children complete tasks and activities more independently, with less hands-on help from caregivers. We will look at how effective it is to teach caregivers how to use these activity schedules with their children.

We’ll compare how satisfied caregivers are and how well children complete activities between two groups: one group that receives the training over three to six weeks (Activity Schedules intervention group), and another group that does not receive the training right away (control group). Families in the second group (control) will have the option to receive the training later if they choose.

All children will participate in research appointments at the start and end of the study. If your child is in the Activity Schedules intervention group, you and your child will visit MMI two to five times a week for two hour sessions, over a period of three to six weeks.

This study is being conducted solely for research purposes and your participation is strictly voluntary. If you are interested in taking part, we will ask you to sign a form to indicate that you consent to taking part in the study. If you consent to participate, you may withdraw from the study at any time. You will receive compensation for participation.