Walking and Talking in Autism

The goal of this study is to track the early development of infants with an older sibling, so we can better understand how autism develops. We are looking for infants 6-10 months who have an older biological sibling with autism as well as infants whose older sibling is developing typically.

Youand your child will make 2-4 visits to CHOP’s Robert’s Center for PediatricResearch. We will observe as you and your child play with various toys,puzzles, and interactive items such as bubbles and balloons. Caregivers willanswer questions about their children’s development and past medical history.Using these observations and questionnaires, we will assess your child’slanguage, motor, and social development after your child starts to walk andagain when he/she turns two. We will also provide an expert autism evaluationwhen your child turns two years old.

Youwill be paid for your time and travel expenses. You will also be given a reportand receive personalized feedback on your child at your child’s two-year visit.If your infant develops autism, we will assist you in finding services in yourcommunity. There is no cost to participate in the study and no insuranceneeded.