Trial Outcomes & Findings for Tailoring Treatment Targets for Early Autism Intervention in Africa (NCT NCT04068688)

NCT ID: NCT04068688

Last Updated: 2022-12-02

Results Overview

Child engagement states measured by the Joint Engagement Rating Inventory (JERI) ; in the ASD group; the typically developing group; and the developmental delay group. Joint Engagement Rating Inventory contains eighteen 7-point Likert scale items that characterized various aspects of joint engagement. The items were designed to span the range of possibilities likely to be observed during interactions with 18- to 30-month-old TD children as well as similarly aged and older children with developmental difficulties, including ASD. A rating of 1 indicates a very low rating and no time spent in that engagement state, 4 is the midpoint indicating the moderate time and quality of episodes in an engagement state, and 7 indicates a very high rating and high-quality engagement.

Recruitment status

COMPLETED

Study phase

NA

Target enrollment

73 participants

Primary outcome timeframe

Baseline and Follow-up (after 12 intervention sessions, up to 3 months)

Results posted on

2022-12-02

Participant Flow

ASD caregiver-child dyads were recruited from Western Cape Department of Education Autism Schools; children with developmental delay from Neurodevelopmental Clinics at Red Cross Children's Hospital; typically developing children from ECD Centers. ASD caregiver-child dyads could opt to continue with Telehealth intervention when COVID restrictions were implemented. Participants recruited March 2020-March 2021 received telehealth intervention.

One participant from the Children with Typical Development group was deemed ineligible post-enrollment.

Participant milestones

Participant milestones
Measure
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (In-person Intervention ONLY) - Caregivers
Participants in this arm will be caregivers of children with ASD. Early Start Denver Model (ESDM): Twelve one hour sessions, skill is introduced by "Help is in your hands" Community ESDM videos. Session skills include specific strategies caregivers can use to increase their child's attention to people and their child's communication; strategies to identify, create and use joint activity routines to engage with and teach their child; in addition to ways to use the ABCs of learning to teach their child new behaviors. "Help is in your hands" Community ESDM materials also provide video examples of other caregivers using the session skill with their child. The early childhood development practitioner then coaches the caregiver in the session skill, in at least two activities. The goal of coaching was to provide enough support for the caregiver to experience success in implementing the new skill with their child. Coaching is followed by caregiver reflection and a discussion of generalization of the new skill across various daily activities, using a daily activities visual aid.
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (In-person Intervention ONLY) - Children
Participants in this arm will be children with ASD. Early Start Denver Model (ESDM): Twelve one hour sessions, skill is introduced by "Help is in your hands" Community ESDM videos. Session skills include specific strategies caregivers can use to increase their child's attention to people and their child's communication; strategies to identify, create and use joint activity routines to engage with and teach their child; in addition to ways to use the ABCs of learning to teach their child new behaviors. "Help is in your hands" Community ESDM materials also provide video examples of other caregivers using the session skill with their child. The early childhood development practitioner then coaches the caregiver in the session skill, in at least two activities. The goal of coaching was to provide enough support for the caregiver to experience success in implementing the new skill with their child. Coaching is followed by caregiver reflection and a discussion of generalization of the new skill across various daily activities, using a daily activities visual aid.
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (In-person, Then Telehealth Intervention) - Caregivers
Participants in this arm will be caregivers of children with ASD who began the intervention in-person and moved to telehealth due to COVID-19 restrictions. In-person: Twelve 1-hour sessions, skill is introduced by "Help is in your hands" Community Early Start Denver Model (C-ESDM) videos. Skills include specific strategies caregivers can use to increase their child's attention to people and their child's communication; strategies to identify, create and use joint activity routines to engage with and teach their child; in addition to ways to use the ABCs of learning to teach their child new behaviors. The ECD practitioner then coaches the caregiver in at least two activities. Coaching is followed by caregiver reflection and a discussion of generalization of the new skill using a daily activities visual aid. Telehealth coaching: The telehealth coaching intervention was informed by the C-ESDM materials. Twelve session-specific visuals with simple-text (for caregivers) and session scripts (for non-specialist coaches) were developed by the research team. Over 12, 1-hour asynchronous caregiver coaching sessions that are delivered by non-specialists, caregivers were coached as above (via phone). Prior to the coaching session staff shared session materials with the family via WhatsApp and the caregiver shared a 6-min video of an interaction with their child. During the session, the caregiver and coach reviewed the video, and the caregiver completed a self-reflection checklist.
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (In-person, Then Telehealth Intervention) - Children
Participants in this arm will be children with ASD who began the intervention in-person and moved to telehealth due to COVID-19 restrictions. In-person: Twelve 1-hour sessions, skill is introduced by "Help is in your hands" Community Early Start Denver Model (C-ESDM) videos. Skills include specific strategies caregivers can use to increase their child's attention to people and their child's communication; strategies to identify, create and use joint activity routines to engage with and teach their child; in addition to ways to use the ABCs of learning to teach their child new behaviors. The ECD practitioner then coaches the caregiver in at least two activities. Coaching is followed by caregiver reflection and a discussion of generalization of the new skill using a daily activities visual aid. Telehealth coaching: The telehealth coaching intervention was informed by the C-ESDM materials. Twelve session-specific visuals with simple-text (for caregivers) and session scripts (for non-specialist coaches) were developed by the research team. Over 12, 1-hour asynchronous caregiver coaching sessions that are delivered by non-specialists, caregivers were coached as above (via phone). Prior to the coaching session staff shared session materials with the family via WhatsApp and the caregiver shared a 6-min video of an interaction with their child. During the session, the caregiver and coach reviewed the video, and the caregiver completed a self-reflection checklist.
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (Telehealth Intervention ONLY) - Caregivers
Participants in this arm will be caregivers of children with ASD receiving telehealth intervention (adaptation due to COVID-19 restrictions). Telehealth coaching: The telehealth coaching intervention was informed by the Community-Early Start Denver Model (C-ESDM) materials. Twelve session-specific visuals with simple-text (for caregivers) and session scripts (for non-specialist coaches) were developed by the research team. Over 12, 1-hour asynchronous caregiver coaching sessions that are delivered by non-specialists, caregivers were coached in strategies to increase child attention to their social world, increase child communication, create and build joint activity routines, and understand and use the ABCs to support the development of new behaviors. The session itself being delivered via phone. Prior to the coaching session staff shared session materials with the family via WhatsApp. Prior to the session the caregiver shared a 6-min video of an interaction with their child. During the session, the caregiver and coach reviewed the video, and the caregiver completed a self-reflection checklist.
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (Telehealth Intervention ONLY) - Children
Participants in this arm will be children with ASD receiving telehealth intervention (adaptation due to COVID-19 restrictions). Telehealth coaching: The telehealth coaching intervention was informed by the Community-Early Start Denver Model (C-ESDM) materials. Twelve session-specific visuals with simple-text (for caregivers) and session scripts (for non-specialist coaches) were developed by the research team. Over 12, 1-hour asynchronous caregiver coaching sessions that are delivered by non-specialists, caregivers were coached in strategies to increase child attention to their social world, increase child communication, create and build joint activity routines, and understand and use the ABCs to support the development of new behaviors. The session itself being delivered via phone. Prior to the coaching session staff shared session materials with the family via WhatsApp. Prior to the session the caregiver shared a 6-min video of an interaction with their child. During the session, the caregiver and coach reviewed the video, and the caregiver completed a self-reflection checklist.
Children With Typical Development
Participants in this arm will be children with typical development. No intervention.
Children With Developmental Delay
Participants in this arm will be children with developmental delay. No intervention.
Early Childhood Development (ECD) Practitioners and ECD Practitioner School Supervisors
The ECD worker and/or school supervisor are 1) employed by our participating recruitment partners (Western Cape Education Department Schools) and 2) involved in delivery of the caregiver coaching sessions, either in person or remotely.
Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) Supervisors
The local supervisors are 1) trained ESDM therapist, 2) supervise weekly coaching sessions in the schools, and/or 3) supervise remote intervention delivery sessions.
Overall Study
STARTED
17
17
2
2
12
12
2
1
4
3
Overall Study
COMPLETED
8
8
2
2
7
7
2
1
3
3
Overall Study
NOT COMPLETED
9
9
0
0
5
5
0
0
1
0

Reasons for withdrawal

Reasons for withdrawal
Measure
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (In-person Intervention ONLY) - Caregivers
Participants in this arm will be caregivers of children with ASD. Early Start Denver Model (ESDM): Twelve one hour sessions, skill is introduced by "Help is in your hands" Community ESDM videos. Session skills include specific strategies caregivers can use to increase their child's attention to people and their child's communication; strategies to identify, create and use joint activity routines to engage with and teach their child; in addition to ways to use the ABCs of learning to teach their child new behaviors. "Help is in your hands" Community ESDM materials also provide video examples of other caregivers using the session skill with their child. The early childhood development practitioner then coaches the caregiver in the session skill, in at least two activities. The goal of coaching was to provide enough support for the caregiver to experience success in implementing the new skill with their child. Coaching is followed by caregiver reflection and a discussion of generalization of the new skill across various daily activities, using a daily activities visual aid.
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (In-person Intervention ONLY) - Children
Participants in this arm will be children with ASD. Early Start Denver Model (ESDM): Twelve one hour sessions, skill is introduced by "Help is in your hands" Community ESDM videos. Session skills include specific strategies caregivers can use to increase their child's attention to people and their child's communication; strategies to identify, create and use joint activity routines to engage with and teach their child; in addition to ways to use the ABCs of learning to teach their child new behaviors. "Help is in your hands" Community ESDM materials also provide video examples of other caregivers using the session skill with their child. The early childhood development practitioner then coaches the caregiver in the session skill, in at least two activities. The goal of coaching was to provide enough support for the caregiver to experience success in implementing the new skill with their child. Coaching is followed by caregiver reflection and a discussion of generalization of the new skill across various daily activities, using a daily activities visual aid.
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (In-person, Then Telehealth Intervention) - Caregivers
Participants in this arm will be caregivers of children with ASD who began the intervention in-person and moved to telehealth due to COVID-19 restrictions. In-person: Twelve 1-hour sessions, skill is introduced by "Help is in your hands" Community Early Start Denver Model (C-ESDM) videos. Skills include specific strategies caregivers can use to increase their child's attention to people and their child's communication; strategies to identify, create and use joint activity routines to engage with and teach their child; in addition to ways to use the ABCs of learning to teach their child new behaviors. The ECD practitioner then coaches the caregiver in at least two activities. Coaching is followed by caregiver reflection and a discussion of generalization of the new skill using a daily activities visual aid. Telehealth coaching: The telehealth coaching intervention was informed by the C-ESDM materials. Twelve session-specific visuals with simple-text (for caregivers) and session scripts (for non-specialist coaches) were developed by the research team. Over 12, 1-hour asynchronous caregiver coaching sessions that are delivered by non-specialists, caregivers were coached as above (via phone). Prior to the coaching session staff shared session materials with the family via WhatsApp and the caregiver shared a 6-min video of an interaction with their child. During the session, the caregiver and coach reviewed the video, and the caregiver completed a self-reflection checklist.
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (In-person, Then Telehealth Intervention) - Children
Participants in this arm will be children with ASD who began the intervention in-person and moved to telehealth due to COVID-19 restrictions. In-person: Twelve 1-hour sessions, skill is introduced by "Help is in your hands" Community Early Start Denver Model (C-ESDM) videos. Skills include specific strategies caregivers can use to increase their child's attention to people and their child's communication; strategies to identify, create and use joint activity routines to engage with and teach their child; in addition to ways to use the ABCs of learning to teach their child new behaviors. The ECD practitioner then coaches the caregiver in at least two activities. Coaching is followed by caregiver reflection and a discussion of generalization of the new skill using a daily activities visual aid. Telehealth coaching: The telehealth coaching intervention was informed by the C-ESDM materials. Twelve session-specific visuals with simple-text (for caregivers) and session scripts (for non-specialist coaches) were developed by the research team. Over 12, 1-hour asynchronous caregiver coaching sessions that are delivered by non-specialists, caregivers were coached as above (via phone). Prior to the coaching session staff shared session materials with the family via WhatsApp and the caregiver shared a 6-min video of an interaction with their child. During the session, the caregiver and coach reviewed the video, and the caregiver completed a self-reflection checklist.
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (Telehealth Intervention ONLY) - Caregivers
Participants in this arm will be caregivers of children with ASD receiving telehealth intervention (adaptation due to COVID-19 restrictions). Telehealth coaching: The telehealth coaching intervention was informed by the Community-Early Start Denver Model (C-ESDM) materials. Twelve session-specific visuals with simple-text (for caregivers) and session scripts (for non-specialist coaches) were developed by the research team. Over 12, 1-hour asynchronous caregiver coaching sessions that are delivered by non-specialists, caregivers were coached in strategies to increase child attention to their social world, increase child communication, create and build joint activity routines, and understand and use the ABCs to support the development of new behaviors. The session itself being delivered via phone. Prior to the coaching session staff shared session materials with the family via WhatsApp. Prior to the session the caregiver shared a 6-min video of an interaction with their child. During the session, the caregiver and coach reviewed the video, and the caregiver completed a self-reflection checklist.
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (Telehealth Intervention ONLY) - Children
Participants in this arm will be children with ASD receiving telehealth intervention (adaptation due to COVID-19 restrictions). Telehealth coaching: The telehealth coaching intervention was informed by the Community-Early Start Denver Model (C-ESDM) materials. Twelve session-specific visuals with simple-text (for caregivers) and session scripts (for non-specialist coaches) were developed by the research team. Over 12, 1-hour asynchronous caregiver coaching sessions that are delivered by non-specialists, caregivers were coached in strategies to increase child attention to their social world, increase child communication, create and build joint activity routines, and understand and use the ABCs to support the development of new behaviors. The session itself being delivered via phone. Prior to the coaching session staff shared session materials with the family via WhatsApp. Prior to the session the caregiver shared a 6-min video of an interaction with their child. During the session, the caregiver and coach reviewed the video, and the caregiver completed a self-reflection checklist.
Children With Typical Development
Participants in this arm will be children with typical development. No intervention.
Children With Developmental Delay
Participants in this arm will be children with developmental delay. No intervention.
Early Childhood Development (ECD) Practitioners and ECD Practitioner School Supervisors
The ECD worker and/or school supervisor are 1) employed by our participating recruitment partners (Western Cape Education Department Schools) and 2) involved in delivery of the caregiver coaching sessions, either in person or remotely.
Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) Supervisors
The local supervisors are 1) trained ESDM therapist, 2) supervise weekly coaching sessions in the schools, and/or 3) supervise remote intervention delivery sessions.
Overall Study
Lost to Follow-up
1
1
0
0
5
5
0
0
1
0
Overall Study
Withdrawal by Subject
1
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Overall Study
Unable to complete intervention due to COVID-19 restrictions
7
7
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0

Baseline Characteristics

Caregivers only. Data not collected on ECD Practitioners and ECD Practitioner School Supervisors or ESDM Supervisors groups.

Baseline characteristics by cohort

Baseline characteristics by cohort
Measure
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (In-person Intervention ONLY) - Caregivers
n=17 Participants
Participants in this arm will be caregivers of children with ASD. Early Start Denver Model (ESDM): Twelve one hour sessions, skill is introduced by "Help is in your hands" Community ESDM videos. Session skills include specific strategies caregivers can use to increase their child's attention to people and their child's communication; strategies to identify, create and use joint activity routines to engage with and teach their child; in addition to ways to use the ABCs of learning to teach their child new behaviors. "Help is in your hands" Community ESDM materials also provide video examples of other caregivers using the session skill with their child. The early childhood development practitioner then coaches the caregiver in the session skill, in at least two activities. The goal of coaching was to provide enough support for the caregiver to experience success in implementing the new skill with their child. Coaching is followed by caregiver reflection and a discussion of generalization of the new skill across various daily activities, using a daily activities visual aid.
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (In-person Intervention ONLY) - Children
n=17 Participants
Participants in this arm will be children with ASD. Early Start Denver Model (ESDM): Twelve one hour sessions, skill is introduced by "Help is in your hands" Community ESDM videos. Session skills include specific strategies caregivers can use to increase their child's attention to people and their child's communication; strategies to identify, create and use joint activity routines to engage with and teach their child; in addition to ways to use the ABCs of learning to teach their child new behaviors. "Help is in your hands" Community ESDM materials also provide video examples of other caregivers using the session skill with their child. The early childhood development practitioner then coaches the caregiver in the session skill, in at least two activities. The goal of coaching was to provide enough support for the caregiver to experience success in implementing the new skill with their child. Coaching is followed by caregiver reflection and a discussion of generalization of the new skill across various daily activities, using a daily activities visual aid.
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (In-person, Then Telehealth Intervention) - Caregivers
n=2 Participants
Participants in this arm will be caregivers of children with ASD who began the intervention in-person and moved to telehealth due to COVID-19 restrictions. In-person: Twelve 1-hour sessions, skill is introduced by "Help is in your hands" Community Early Start Denver Model (C-ESDM) videos. Skills include specific strategies caregivers can use to increase their child's attention to people and their child's communication; strategies to identify, create and use joint activity routines to engage with and teach their child; in addition to ways to use the ABCs of learning to teach their child new behaviors. The ECD practitioner then coaches the caregiver in at least two activities. Coaching is followed by caregiver reflection and a discussion of generalization of the new skill using a daily activities visual aid. Telehealth coaching: The telehealth coaching intervention was informed by the C-ESDM materials. Twelve session-specific visuals with simple-text (for caregivers) and session scripts (for non-specialist coaches) were developed by the research team. Over 12, 1-hour asynchronous caregiver coaching sessions that are delivered by non-specialists, caregivers were coached as above (via phone). Prior to the coaching session staff shared session materials with the family via WhatsApp and the caregiver shared a 6-min video of an interaction with their child. During the session, the caregiver and coach reviewed the video, and the caregiver completed a self-reflection checklist.
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (In-person, Then Telehealth Intervention) - Children
n=2 Participants
Participants in this arm will be children with ASD who began the intervention in-person and moved to telehealth due to COVID-19 restrictions. In-person: Twelve 1-hour sessions, skill is introduced by "Help is in your hands" Community Early Start Denver Model (C-ESDM) videos. Skills include specific strategies caregivers can use to increase their child's attention to people and their child's communication; strategies to identify, create and use joint activity routines to engage with and teach their child; in addition to ways to use the ABCs of learning to teach their child new behaviors. The ECD practitioner then coaches the caregiver in at least two activities. Coaching is followed by caregiver reflection and a discussion of generalization of the new skill using a daily activities visual aid. Telehealth coaching: The telehealth coaching intervention was informed by the C-ESDM materials. Twelve session-specific visuals with simple-text (for caregivers) and session scripts (for non-specialist coaches) were developed by the research team. Over 12, 1-hour asynchronous caregiver coaching sessions that are delivered by non-specialists, caregivers were coached as above (via phone). Prior to the coaching session staff shared session materials with the family via WhatsApp and the caregiver shared a 6-min video of an interaction with their child. During the session, the caregiver and coach reviewed the video, and the caregiver completed a self-reflection checklist.
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (Telehealth Intervention ONLY) - Caregivers
n=12 Participants
Participants in this arm will be caregivers of children with ASD receiving telehealth intervention (adaptation due to COVID-19 restrictions). Telehealth coaching: The telehealth coaching intervention was informed by the Community-Early Start Denver Model (C-ESDM) materials. Twelve session-specific visuals with simple-text (for caregivers) and session scripts (for non-specialist coaches) were developed by the research team. Over 12, 1-hour asynchronous caregiver coaching sessions that are delivered by non-specialists, caregivers were coached in strategies to increase child attention to their social world, increase child communication, create and build joint activity routines, and understand and use the ABCs to support the development of new behaviors. The session itself being delivered via phone. Prior to the coaching session staff shared session materials with the family via WhatsApp. Prior to the session the caregiver shared a 6-min video of an interaction with their child. During the session, the caregiver and coach reviewed the video, and the caregiver completed a self-reflection checklist.
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (Telehealth Intervention ONLY) - Children
n=12 Participants
Participants in this arm will be children with ASD receiving telehealth intervention (adaptation due to COVID-19 restrictions). Telehealth coaching: The telehealth coaching intervention was informed by the Community-Early Start Denver Model (C-ESDM) materials. Twelve session-specific visuals with simple-text (for caregivers) and session scripts (for non-specialist coaches) were developed by the research team. Over 12, 1-hour asynchronous caregiver coaching sessions that are delivered by non-specialists, caregivers were coached in strategies to increase child attention to their social world, increase child communication, create and build joint activity routines, and understand and use the ABCs to support the development of new behaviors. The session itself being delivered via phone. Prior to the coaching session staff shared session materials with the family via WhatsApp. Prior to the session the caregiver shared a 6-min video of an interaction with their child. During the session, the caregiver and coach reviewed the video, and the caregiver completed a self-reflection checklist.
Children With Typical Development
n=2 Participants
Participants in this arm will be children with typical development. No intervention.
Children With Developmental Delay
n=1 Participants
Participants in this arm will be children with developmental delay. No intervention.
Early Childhood Development (ECD) Practitioners and ECD Practitioner School Supervisors
n=4 Participants
The ECD worker and/or school supervisor are 1) employed by our participating recruitment partners (Western Cape Education Department Schools) and 2) involved in delivery of the caregiver coaching sessions, either in person or remotely.
Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) Supervisors
n=3 Participants
The local supervisors are 1) trained ESDM therapist, 2) supervise weekly coaching sessions in the schools, and/or 3) supervise remote intervention delivery sessions.
Total
n=72 Participants
Total of all reporting groups
Age, Continuous
36.12 years
STANDARD_DEVIATION 9.60 • n=17 Participants • Caregivers only. Data not collected on ECD Practitioners and ECD Practitioner School Supervisors or ESDM Supervisors groups.
50.19 months
STANDARD_DEVIATION 9.66 • n=17 Participants • Children only. Data not collected on ECD Practitioners and ECD Practitioner School Supervisors or ESDM Supervisors groups.
36 years
STANDARD_DEVIATION 7.07 • n=2 Participants • Caregivers only. Data not collected on ECD Practitioners and ECD Practitioner School Supervisors or ESDM Supervisors groups.
40.5 months
STANDARD_DEVIATION 17.68 • n=2 Participants • Children only. Data not collected on ECD Practitioners and ECD Practitioner School Supervisors or ESDM Supervisors groups.
35.5 years
STANDARD_DEVIATION 7.52 • n=12 Participants • Caregivers only. Data not collected on ECD Practitioners and ECD Practitioner School Supervisors or ESDM Supervisors groups.
51.25 months
STANDARD_DEVIATION 16.94 • n=12 Participants • Children only. Data not collected on ECD Practitioners and ECD Practitioner School Supervisors or ESDM Supervisors groups.
41 months
STANDARD_DEVIATION 7.07 • n=2 Participants • Children only. Data not collected on ECD Practitioners and ECD Practitioner School Supervisors or ESDM Supervisors groups.
18 months
STANDARD_DEVIATION 0 • n=1 Participants • Children only. Data not collected on ECD Practitioners and ECD Practitioner School Supervisors or ESDM Supervisors groups.
48.07 months
STANDARD_DEVIATION 13.42 • n=34 Participants • Children only. Data not collected on ECD Practitioners and ECD Practitioner School Supervisors or ESDM Supervisors groups.
Sex: Female, Male
Female
11 Participants
n=17 Participants
3 Participants
n=17 Participants
1 Participants
n=2 Participants
1 Participants
n=2 Participants
10 Participants
n=12 Participants
2 Participants
n=12 Participants
1 Participants
n=2 Participants
1 Participants
n=1 Participants
4 Participants
n=4 Participants
3 Participants
n=3 Participants
37 Participants
n=72 Participants
Sex: Female, Male
Male
6 Participants
n=17 Participants
14 Participants
n=17 Participants
1 Participants
n=2 Participants
1 Participants
n=2 Participants
2 Participants
n=12 Participants
10 Participants
n=12 Participants
1 Participants
n=2 Participants
0 Participants
n=1 Participants
0 Participants
n=4 Participants
0 Participants
n=3 Participants
35 Participants
n=72 Participants
Ethnicity (NIH/OMB)
Hispanic or Latino
0 Participants
n=17 Participants
0 Participants
n=17 Participants
0 Participants
n=2 Participants
0 Participants
n=2 Participants
0 Participants
n=12 Participants
0 Participants
n=12 Participants
0 Participants
n=2 Participants
0 Participants
n=1 Participants
0 Participants
n=4 Participants
0 Participants
n=3 Participants
0 Participants
n=72 Participants
Ethnicity (NIH/OMB)
Not Hispanic or Latino
17 Participants
n=17 Participants
17 Participants
n=17 Participants
2 Participants
n=2 Participants
2 Participants
n=2 Participants
12 Participants
n=12 Participants
12 Participants
n=12 Participants
2 Participants
n=2 Participants
1 Participants
n=1 Participants
4 Participants
n=4 Participants
3 Participants
n=3 Participants
72 Participants
n=72 Participants
Ethnicity (NIH/OMB)
Unknown or Not Reported
0 Participants
n=17 Participants
0 Participants
n=17 Participants
0 Participants
n=2 Participants
0 Participants
n=2 Participants
0 Participants
n=12 Participants
0 Participants
n=12 Participants
0 Participants
n=2 Participants
0 Participants
n=1 Participants
0 Participants
n=4 Participants
0 Participants
n=3 Participants
0 Participants
n=72 Participants
Race (NIH/OMB)
American Indian or Alaska Native
0 Participants
n=17 Participants
0 Participants
n=17 Participants
0 Participants
n=2 Participants
0 Participants
n=2 Participants
0 Participants
n=12 Participants
0 Participants
n=12 Participants
0 Participants
n=2 Participants
0 Participants
n=1 Participants
0 Participants
n=4 Participants
0 Participants
n=3 Participants
0 Participants
n=72 Participants
Race (NIH/OMB)
Asian
1 Participants
n=17 Participants
0 Participants
n=17 Participants
0 Participants
n=2 Participants
0 Participants
n=2 Participants
1 Participants
n=12 Participants
1 Participants
n=12 Participants
0 Participants
n=2 Participants
0 Participants
n=1 Participants
0 Participants
n=4 Participants
0 Participants
n=3 Participants
3 Participants
n=72 Participants
Race (NIH/OMB)
Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander
0 Participants
n=17 Participants
0 Participants
n=17 Participants
0 Participants
n=2 Participants
0 Participants
n=2 Participants
0 Participants
n=12 Participants
0 Participants
n=12 Participants
0 Participants
n=2 Participants
0 Participants
n=1 Participants
0 Participants
n=4 Participants
0 Participants
n=3 Participants
0 Participants
n=72 Participants
Race (NIH/OMB)
Black or African American
4 Participants
n=17 Participants
5 Participants
n=17 Participants
2 Participants
n=2 Participants
2 Participants
n=2 Participants
0 Participants
n=12 Participants
0 Participants
n=12 Participants
1 Participants
n=2 Participants
1 Participants
n=1 Participants
0 Participants
n=4 Participants
1 Participants
n=3 Participants
16 Participants
n=72 Participants
Race (NIH/OMB)
White
0 Participants
n=17 Participants
0 Participants
n=17 Participants
0 Participants
n=2 Participants
0 Participants
n=2 Participants
0 Participants
n=12 Participants
0 Participants
n=12 Participants
0 Participants
n=2 Participants
0 Participants
n=1 Participants
0 Participants
n=4 Participants
2 Participants
n=3 Participants
2 Participants
n=72 Participants
Race (NIH/OMB)
More than one race
9 Participants
n=17 Participants
10 Participants
n=17 Participants
0 Participants
n=2 Participants
0 Participants
n=2 Participants
7 Participants
n=12 Participants
7 Participants
n=12 Participants
1 Participants
n=2 Participants
0 Participants
n=1 Participants
3 Participants
n=4 Participants
0 Participants
n=3 Participants
37 Participants
n=72 Participants
Race (NIH/OMB)
Unknown or Not Reported
3 Participants
n=17 Participants
2 Participants
n=17 Participants
0 Participants
n=2 Participants
0 Participants
n=2 Participants
4 Participants
n=12 Participants
4 Participants
n=12 Participants
0 Participants
n=2 Participants
0 Participants
n=1 Participants
1 Participants
n=4 Participants
0 Participants
n=3 Participants
14 Participants
n=72 Participants
Region of Enrollment
South Africa
17 Participants
n=17 Participants
17 Participants
n=17 Participants
2 Participants
n=2 Participants
2 Participants
n=2 Participants
12 Participants
n=12 Participants
12 Participants
n=12 Participants
2 Participants
n=2 Participants
1 Participants
n=1 Participants
4 Participants
n=4 Participants
3 Participants
n=3 Participants
72 Participants
n=72 Participants

PRIMARY outcome

Timeframe: Baseline and Follow-up (after 12 intervention sessions, up to 3 months)

Population: Participants who completed the study. Only applicable to Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD, Children with typical development, and Children with developmental delay groups. Data only collected at baseline for Children with Typical Development and Children with Developmental Delay.

Child engagement states measured by the Joint Engagement Rating Inventory (JERI) ; in the ASD group; the typically developing group; and the developmental delay group. Joint Engagement Rating Inventory contains eighteen 7-point Likert scale items that characterized various aspects of joint engagement. The items were designed to span the range of possibilities likely to be observed during interactions with 18- to 30-month-old TD children as well as similarly aged and older children with developmental difficulties, including ASD. A rating of 1 indicates a very low rating and no time spent in that engagement state, 4 is the midpoint indicating the moderate time and quality of episodes in an engagement state, and 7 indicates a very high rating and high-quality engagement.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (In-person Intervention ONLY)
n=8 Participants
Participants in this arm will be caregivers of and children with ASD. Early Start Denver Model (ESDM): Twelve one hour sessions, skill is introduced by "Help is in your hands" Community ESDM videos. Session skills include specific strategies caregivers can use to increase their child's attention to people and their child's communication; strategies to identify, create and use joint activity routines to engage with and teach their child; in addition to ways to use the ABCs of learning to teach their child new behaviors. "Help is in your hands" Community ESDM materials also provide video examples of other caregivers using the session skill with their child. The early childhood development practitioner then coaches the caregiver in the session skill, in at least two activities. The goal of coaching was to provide enough support for the caregiver to experience success in implementing the new skill with their child. Coaching is followed by caregiver reflection and a discussion of generalization of the new skill across various daily activities, using a daily activities visual aid.
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (Telehealth Intervention)
n=9 Participants
Participants in this arm will be caregivers of and children with ASD receiving only telehealth intervention (adaptation due to COVID-19 restrictions) or as a continuation of in-person intervention. Telehealth coaching: The telehealth coaching intervention was informed by the Community-Early Start Denver Model (C-ESDM) materials. Twelve session-specific visuals with simple-text (for caregivers) and session scripts (for non-specialist coaches) were developed by the research team. Over 12, 1-hour asynchronous caregiver coaching sessions that are delivered by non-specialists, caregivers were coached in strategies to increase child attention to their social world, increase child communication, create and build joint activity routines, and understand and use the ABCs to support the development of new behaviors. The session itself being delivered via phone. Prior to the coaching session staff shared session materials with the family via WhatsApp. Prior to the session the caregiver shared a 6-min video of an interaction with their child. During the session, the caregiver and coach reviewed the video, and the caregiver completed a self-reflection checklist.
Children With Typical Development
n=2 Participants
Participants in this arm will be children with typical development. No intervention.
Children With Developmental Delay
n=1 Participants
Participants in this arm will be children with developmental delay. No intervention.
Supported Joint Engagement Measured by the Joint Engagement Rating Inventory (JERI)
Baseline
6 score on a scale
Interval 3.0 to 6.0
4 score on a scale
Interval 3.0 to 6.0
2 score on a scale
Interval 2.0 to 2.0
4 score on a scale
Interval 4.0 to 4.0
Supported Joint Engagement Measured by the Joint Engagement Rating Inventory (JERI)
Follow-up
5.5 score on a scale
Interval 4.0 to 6.0
5 score on a scale
Interval 1.0 to 6.0

PRIMARY outcome

Timeframe: Baseline and Follow-up (after 12 intervention sessions, up to 3 months)

Population: Participants who completed the study. Only applicable to Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD, Children with typical development, and Children with developmental delay groups. Data only collected at baseline for Children with Typical Development and Children with Developmental Delay.

Child engagement states measured by the Joint Engagement Rating Inventory (JERI) in the ASD group; the typically developing group; and the developmental delay group. Joint Engagement Rating Inventory contains eighteen 7-point Likert scale items that characterized various aspects of joint engagement. The items were designed to span the range of possibilities likely to be observed during interactions with 18- to 30-month-old TD children as well as similarly aged and older children with developmental difficulties, including ASD. A rating of 1 indicates a very low rating and no time spent in that engagement state, 4 is the midpoint indicating the moderate time and quality of episodes in an engagement state, and 7 indicates a very high rating and high-quality engagement.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (In-person Intervention ONLY)
n=8 Participants
Participants in this arm will be caregivers of and children with ASD. Early Start Denver Model (ESDM): Twelve one hour sessions, skill is introduced by "Help is in your hands" Community ESDM videos. Session skills include specific strategies caregivers can use to increase their child's attention to people and their child's communication; strategies to identify, create and use joint activity routines to engage with and teach their child; in addition to ways to use the ABCs of learning to teach their child new behaviors. "Help is in your hands" Community ESDM materials also provide video examples of other caregivers using the session skill with their child. The early childhood development practitioner then coaches the caregiver in the session skill, in at least two activities. The goal of coaching was to provide enough support for the caregiver to experience success in implementing the new skill with their child. Coaching is followed by caregiver reflection and a discussion of generalization of the new skill across various daily activities, using a daily activities visual aid.
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (Telehealth Intervention)
n=9 Participants
Participants in this arm will be caregivers of and children with ASD receiving only telehealth intervention (adaptation due to COVID-19 restrictions) or as a continuation of in-person intervention. Telehealth coaching: The telehealth coaching intervention was informed by the Community-Early Start Denver Model (C-ESDM) materials. Twelve session-specific visuals with simple-text (for caregivers) and session scripts (for non-specialist coaches) were developed by the research team. Over 12, 1-hour asynchronous caregiver coaching sessions that are delivered by non-specialists, caregivers were coached in strategies to increase child attention to their social world, increase child communication, create and build joint activity routines, and understand and use the ABCs to support the development of new behaviors. The session itself being delivered via phone. Prior to the coaching session staff shared session materials with the family via WhatsApp. Prior to the session the caregiver shared a 6-min video of an interaction with their child. During the session, the caregiver and coach reviewed the video, and the caregiver completed a self-reflection checklist.
Children With Typical Development
n=2 Participants
Participants in this arm will be children with typical development. No intervention.
Children With Developmental Delay
n=1 Participants
Participants in this arm will be children with developmental delay. No intervention.
Coordinated Joint Engagement Measured by the Joint Engagement Rating Inventory (JERI)
Baseline
1 score on a scale
Interval 1.0 to 3.0
1 score on a scale
Interval 1.0 to 2.0
6 score on a scale
Interval 6.0 to 6.0
2 score on a scale
Interval 2.0 to 2.0
Coordinated Joint Engagement Measured by the Joint Engagement Rating Inventory (JERI)
Follow-up
1 score on a scale
Interval 1.0 to 4.0
1 score on a scale
Interval 1.0 to 3.0

PRIMARY outcome

Timeframe: Baseline and Follow-up (after 12 intervention sessions, up to 3 months)

Population: Participants who completed the study. Only applicable to Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD, Children with typical development, and Children with developmental delay groups. Data only collected at baseline for Children with Typical Development and Children with Developmental Delay.

Child engagement states measured by the Joint Engagement Rating Inventory (JERI) in the ASD group; the typically developing group; and the developmental delay group. Joint Engagement Rating Inventory contains eighteen 7-point Likert scale items that characterized various aspects of joint engagement. The items were designed to span the range of possibilities likely to be observed during interactions with 18- to 30-month-old TD children as well as similarly aged and older children with developmental difficulties, including ASD. A rating of 1 indicates a very low rating and no time spent in that engagement state, 4 is the midpoint indicating the moderate time and quality of episodes in an engagement state, and 7 indicates a very high rating and high-quality engagement.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (In-person Intervention ONLY)
n=8 Participants
Participants in this arm will be caregivers of and children with ASD. Early Start Denver Model (ESDM): Twelve one hour sessions, skill is introduced by "Help is in your hands" Community ESDM videos. Session skills include specific strategies caregivers can use to increase their child's attention to people and their child's communication; strategies to identify, create and use joint activity routines to engage with and teach their child; in addition to ways to use the ABCs of learning to teach their child new behaviors. "Help is in your hands" Community ESDM materials also provide video examples of other caregivers using the session skill with their child. The early childhood development practitioner then coaches the caregiver in the session skill, in at least two activities. The goal of coaching was to provide enough support for the caregiver to experience success in implementing the new skill with their child. Coaching is followed by caregiver reflection and a discussion of generalization of the new skill across various daily activities, using a daily activities visual aid.
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (Telehealth Intervention)
n=9 Participants
Participants in this arm will be caregivers of and children with ASD receiving only telehealth intervention (adaptation due to COVID-19 restrictions) or as a continuation of in-person intervention. Telehealth coaching: The telehealth coaching intervention was informed by the Community-Early Start Denver Model (C-ESDM) materials. Twelve session-specific visuals with simple-text (for caregivers) and session scripts (for non-specialist coaches) were developed by the research team. Over 12, 1-hour asynchronous caregiver coaching sessions that are delivered by non-specialists, caregivers were coached in strategies to increase child attention to their social world, increase child communication, create and build joint activity routines, and understand and use the ABCs to support the development of new behaviors. The session itself being delivered via phone. Prior to the coaching session staff shared session materials with the family via WhatsApp. Prior to the session the caregiver shared a 6-min video of an interaction with their child. During the session, the caregiver and coach reviewed the video, and the caregiver completed a self-reflection checklist.
Children With Typical Development
n=2 Participants
Participants in this arm will be children with typical development. No intervention.
Children With Developmental Delay
n=1 Participants
Participants in this arm will be children with developmental delay. No intervention.
Symbol-infused Joint Engagement Measured by the Joint Engagement Rating Inventory (JERI)
Baseline
2 score on a scale
Interval 1.0 to 3.0
2 score on a scale
Interval 1.0 to 4.0
6.5 score on a scale
Interval 6.0 to 7.0
2 score on a scale
Interval 2.0 to 2.0
Symbol-infused Joint Engagement Measured by the Joint Engagement Rating Inventory (JERI)
Follow-up
3 score on a scale
Interval 1.0 to 4.0
1 score on a scale
Interval 1.0 to 5.0

PRIMARY outcome

Timeframe: Baseline and Follow-up (after 12 intervention sessions, up to 3 months)

Population: Participants who completed the study. Only applicable to Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD, Children with typical development, and Children with developmental delay groups. Data only collected at baseline for Children with Typical Development and Children with Developmental Delay.

Caregiver-child dyadic exchanges measured by the Joint Engagement Rating Inventory (JERI) in the ASD group. Joint Engagement Rating Inventory contains eighteen 7-point Likert scale items that characterized various aspects of joint engagement. The items were designed to span the range of possibilities likely to be observed during interactions with 18- to 30-month-old TD children as well as similarly aged and older children with developmental difficulties, including ASD. A rating of 1 indicates no interaction between the dyad, a rating of 7 indicates a balanced dyadic exchange that flows naturally back and forth.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (In-person Intervention ONLY)
n=8 Participants
Participants in this arm will be caregivers of and children with ASD. Early Start Denver Model (ESDM): Twelve one hour sessions, skill is introduced by "Help is in your hands" Community ESDM videos. Session skills include specific strategies caregivers can use to increase their child's attention to people and their child's communication; strategies to identify, create and use joint activity routines to engage with and teach their child; in addition to ways to use the ABCs of learning to teach their child new behaviors. "Help is in your hands" Community ESDM materials also provide video examples of other caregivers using the session skill with their child. The early childhood development practitioner then coaches the caregiver in the session skill, in at least two activities. The goal of coaching was to provide enough support for the caregiver to experience success in implementing the new skill with their child. Coaching is followed by caregiver reflection and a discussion of generalization of the new skill across various daily activities, using a daily activities visual aid.
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (Telehealth Intervention)
n=9 Participants
Participants in this arm will be caregivers of and children with ASD receiving only telehealth intervention (adaptation due to COVID-19 restrictions) or as a continuation of in-person intervention. Telehealth coaching: The telehealth coaching intervention was informed by the Community-Early Start Denver Model (C-ESDM) materials. Twelve session-specific visuals with simple-text (for caregivers) and session scripts (for non-specialist coaches) were developed by the research team. Over 12, 1-hour asynchronous caregiver coaching sessions that are delivered by non-specialists, caregivers were coached in strategies to increase child attention to their social world, increase child communication, create and build joint activity routines, and understand and use the ABCs to support the development of new behaviors. The session itself being delivered via phone. Prior to the coaching session staff shared session materials with the family via WhatsApp. Prior to the session the caregiver shared a 6-min video of an interaction with their child. During the session, the caregiver and coach reviewed the video, and the caregiver completed a self-reflection checklist.
Children With Typical Development
n=2 Participants
Participants in this arm will be children with typical development. No intervention.
Children With Developmental Delay
n=1 Participants
Participants in this arm will be children with developmental delay. No intervention.
Fluency and Connectedness Measured by the Joint Engagement Rating Inventory (JERI)
Baseline
4 score on a scale
Interval 3.0 to 5.0
4 score on a scale
Interval 3.0 to 6.0
6 score on a scale
Interval 6.0 to 6.0
3 score on a scale
Interval 3.0 to 3.0
Fluency and Connectedness Measured by the Joint Engagement Rating Inventory (JERI)
Follow-up
5 score on a scale
Interval 3.0 to 6.0
5 score on a scale
Interval 2.0 to 6.0

PRIMARY outcome

Timeframe: Baseline and Follow-up (after 12 intervention sessions, up to 3 months)

Population: Participants who completed the study. Only applicable to Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD, Children with typical development, and Children with developmental delay groups. Data only collected at baseline for Children with Typical Development and Children with Developmental Delay.

Caregiver-child dyadic exchanges measured by the Joint Engagement Rating Inventory (JERI) in the ASD group. Joint Engagement Rating Inventory contains eighteen 7-point Likert scale items that characterized various aspects of joint engagement. The items were designed to span the range of possibilities likely to be observed during interactions with 18- to 30-month-old TD children as well as similarly aged and older children with developmental difficulties, including ASD. A rating of 1 indicates no interaction between the dyad, a rating of 7 indicates a balanced dyadic exchange that flows naturally back and forth.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (In-person Intervention ONLY)
n=8 Participants
Participants in this arm will be caregivers of and children with ASD. Early Start Denver Model (ESDM): Twelve one hour sessions, skill is introduced by "Help is in your hands" Community ESDM videos. Session skills include specific strategies caregivers can use to increase their child's attention to people and their child's communication; strategies to identify, create and use joint activity routines to engage with and teach their child; in addition to ways to use the ABCs of learning to teach their child new behaviors. "Help is in your hands" Community ESDM materials also provide video examples of other caregivers using the session skill with their child. The early childhood development practitioner then coaches the caregiver in the session skill, in at least two activities. The goal of coaching was to provide enough support for the caregiver to experience success in implementing the new skill with their child. Coaching is followed by caregiver reflection and a discussion of generalization of the new skill across various daily activities, using a daily activities visual aid.
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (Telehealth Intervention)
n=9 Participants
Participants in this arm will be caregivers of and children with ASD receiving only telehealth intervention (adaptation due to COVID-19 restrictions) or as a continuation of in-person intervention. Telehealth coaching: The telehealth coaching intervention was informed by the Community-Early Start Denver Model (C-ESDM) materials. Twelve session-specific visuals with simple-text (for caregivers) and session scripts (for non-specialist coaches) were developed by the research team. Over 12, 1-hour asynchronous caregiver coaching sessions that are delivered by non-specialists, caregivers were coached in strategies to increase child attention to their social world, increase child communication, create and build joint activity routines, and understand and use the ABCs to support the development of new behaviors. The session itself being delivered via phone. Prior to the coaching session staff shared session materials with the family via WhatsApp. Prior to the session the caregiver shared a 6-min video of an interaction with their child. During the session, the caregiver and coach reviewed the video, and the caregiver completed a self-reflection checklist.
Children With Typical Development
n=2 Participants
Participants in this arm will be children with typical development. No intervention.
Children With Developmental Delay
n=1 Participants
Participants in this arm will be children with developmental delay. No intervention.
Shared Routines and Rituals Measured by the Joint Engagement Rating Inventory (JERI)
Baseline
1 score on a scale
Interval 1.0 to 2.0
1 score on a scale
Interval 1.0 to 5.0
1 score on a scale
Interval 1.0 to 1.0
1 score on a scale
Interval 1.0 to 1.0
Shared Routines and Rituals Measured by the Joint Engagement Rating Inventory (JERI)
Follow-up
1 score on a scale
Interval 1.0 to 3.0
1 score on a scale
Interval 1.0 to 3.0

PRIMARY outcome

Timeframe: Baseline and Follow-up (after 12 intervention sessions, up to 3 months)

Population: Participants who completed the study. Only applicable to Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD, Children with typical development, and Children with developmental delay groups. Data only collected at baseline for Children with Typical Development and Children with Developmental Delay.

Caregiver strategies measured by the Joint Engagement Rating Inventory (JERI) in the ASD group. Joint Engagement Rating Inventory contains eighteen 7-point Likert scale items that characterized various aspects of joint engagement. The items were designed to span the range of possibilities likely to be observed during interactions with 18- to 30-month-old TD children as well as similarly aged and older children with developmental difficulties, including ASD. A rating of 1 indicates that the caregiver rarely uses the caregiver strategy to support the child's activity and language. A rating of 7 indicates that the caregiver frequently uses appropriate strategies to support and expand their child's activity and language.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (In-person Intervention ONLY)
n=8 Participants
Participants in this arm will be caregivers of and children with ASD. Early Start Denver Model (ESDM): Twelve one hour sessions, skill is introduced by "Help is in your hands" Community ESDM videos. Session skills include specific strategies caregivers can use to increase their child's attention to people and their child's communication; strategies to identify, create and use joint activity routines to engage with and teach their child; in addition to ways to use the ABCs of learning to teach their child new behaviors. "Help is in your hands" Community ESDM materials also provide video examples of other caregivers using the session skill with their child. The early childhood development practitioner then coaches the caregiver in the session skill, in at least two activities. The goal of coaching was to provide enough support for the caregiver to experience success in implementing the new skill with their child. Coaching is followed by caregiver reflection and a discussion of generalization of the new skill across various daily activities, using a daily activities visual aid.
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (Telehealth Intervention)
n=9 Participants
Participants in this arm will be caregivers of and children with ASD receiving only telehealth intervention (adaptation due to COVID-19 restrictions) or as a continuation of in-person intervention. Telehealth coaching: The telehealth coaching intervention was informed by the Community-Early Start Denver Model (C-ESDM) materials. Twelve session-specific visuals with simple-text (for caregivers) and session scripts (for non-specialist coaches) were developed by the research team. Over 12, 1-hour asynchronous caregiver coaching sessions that are delivered by non-specialists, caregivers were coached in strategies to increase child attention to their social world, increase child communication, create and build joint activity routines, and understand and use the ABCs to support the development of new behaviors. The session itself being delivered via phone. Prior to the coaching session staff shared session materials with the family via WhatsApp. Prior to the session the caregiver shared a 6-min video of an interaction with their child. During the session, the caregiver and coach reviewed the video, and the caregiver completed a self-reflection checklist.
Children With Typical Development
n=2 Participants
Participants in this arm will be children with typical development. No intervention.
Children With Developmental Delay
n=1 Participants
Participants in this arm will be children with developmental delay. No intervention.
Scaffolding Measured by the Joint Engagement Rating Inventory (JERI)
Baseline
5 score on a scale
Interval 3.0 to 6.0
4 score on a scale
Interval 3.0 to 5.0
5 score on a scale
Interval 4.0 to 6.0
2 score on a scale
Interval 2.0 to 2.0
Scaffolding Measured by the Joint Engagement Rating Inventory (JERI)
Follow-up
5 score on a scale
Interval 3.0 to 7.0
4 score on a scale
Interval 3.0 to 6.0

PRIMARY outcome

Timeframe: Baseline and Follow-up (after 12 intervention sessions, up to 3 months)

Population: Participants who completed the study. Only applicable to Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD, Children with typical development, and Children with developmental delay groups. Data only collected at baseline for Children with Typical Development and Children with Developmental Delay.

Caregiver strategies measured by the Joint Engagement Rating Inventory (JERI) in the ASD group. Joint Engagement Rating Inventory contains eighteen 7-point Likert scale items that characterized various aspects of joint engagement. The items were designed to span the range of possibilities likely to be observed during interactions with 18- to 30-month-old TD children as well as similarly aged and older children with developmental difficulties, including ASD. A rating of 1 indicates that the caregiver rarely uses the caregiver strategy to support the child's activity and language. A rating of 7 indicates that the caregiver frequently uses appropriate strategies to support and expand their child's activity and language.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (In-person Intervention ONLY)
n=8 Participants
Participants in this arm will be caregivers of and children with ASD. Early Start Denver Model (ESDM): Twelve one hour sessions, skill is introduced by "Help is in your hands" Community ESDM videos. Session skills include specific strategies caregivers can use to increase their child's attention to people and their child's communication; strategies to identify, create and use joint activity routines to engage with and teach their child; in addition to ways to use the ABCs of learning to teach their child new behaviors. "Help is in your hands" Community ESDM materials also provide video examples of other caregivers using the session skill with their child. The early childhood development practitioner then coaches the caregiver in the session skill, in at least two activities. The goal of coaching was to provide enough support for the caregiver to experience success in implementing the new skill with their child. Coaching is followed by caregiver reflection and a discussion of generalization of the new skill across various daily activities, using a daily activities visual aid.
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (Telehealth Intervention)
n=9 Participants
Participants in this arm will be caregivers of and children with ASD receiving only telehealth intervention (adaptation due to COVID-19 restrictions) or as a continuation of in-person intervention. Telehealth coaching: The telehealth coaching intervention was informed by the Community-Early Start Denver Model (C-ESDM) materials. Twelve session-specific visuals with simple-text (for caregivers) and session scripts (for non-specialist coaches) were developed by the research team. Over 12, 1-hour asynchronous caregiver coaching sessions that are delivered by non-specialists, caregivers were coached in strategies to increase child attention to their social world, increase child communication, create and build joint activity routines, and understand and use the ABCs to support the development of new behaviors. The session itself being delivered via phone. Prior to the coaching session staff shared session materials with the family via WhatsApp. Prior to the session the caregiver shared a 6-min video of an interaction with their child. During the session, the caregiver and coach reviewed the video, and the caregiver completed a self-reflection checklist.
Children With Typical Development
n=2 Participants
Participants in this arm will be children with typical development. No intervention.
Children With Developmental Delay
n=1 Participants
Participants in this arm will be children with developmental delay. No intervention.
Following in on a Child's Focus Measured by the Joint Engagement Rating Inventory (JERI)
Baseline
5 score on a scale
Interval 3.0 to 7.0
5 score on a scale
Interval 3.0 to 7.0
5 score on a scale
Interval 4.0 to 6.0
2 score on a scale
Interval 2.0 to 2.0
Following in on a Child's Focus Measured by the Joint Engagement Rating Inventory (JERI)
Follow-up
6 score on a scale
Interval 3.0 to 7.0
5 score on a scale
Interval 3.0 to 6.0

PRIMARY outcome

Timeframe: Baseline and Follow-up (after 12 intervention sessions, up to 3 months)

Population: Participants who completed the study. Only applicable to Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD, Children with typical development, and Children with developmental delay groups. Data only collected at baseline for Children with Typical Development and Children with Developmental Delay.

Caregiver strategies measured by the Joint Engagement Rating Inventory (JERI) in the ASD group. Joint Engagement Rating Inventory contains eighteen 7-point Likert scale items that characterized various aspects of joint engagement. The items were designed to span the range of possibilities likely to be observed during interactions with 18- to 30-month-old TD children as well as similarly aged and older children with developmental difficulties, including ASD. A rating of 1 indicates that the caregiver rarely uses the caregiver strategy to support the child's activity and language. A rating of 7 indicates that the caregiver frequently uses appropriate strategies to support and expand their child's activity and language.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (In-person Intervention ONLY)
n=8 Participants
Participants in this arm will be caregivers of and children with ASD. Early Start Denver Model (ESDM): Twelve one hour sessions, skill is introduced by "Help is in your hands" Community ESDM videos. Session skills include specific strategies caregivers can use to increase their child's attention to people and their child's communication; strategies to identify, create and use joint activity routines to engage with and teach their child; in addition to ways to use the ABCs of learning to teach their child new behaviors. "Help is in your hands" Community ESDM materials also provide video examples of other caregivers using the session skill with their child. The early childhood development practitioner then coaches the caregiver in the session skill, in at least two activities. The goal of coaching was to provide enough support for the caregiver to experience success in implementing the new skill with their child. Coaching is followed by caregiver reflection and a discussion of generalization of the new skill across various daily activities, using a daily activities visual aid.
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (Telehealth Intervention)
n=9 Participants
Participants in this arm will be caregivers of and children with ASD receiving only telehealth intervention (adaptation due to COVID-19 restrictions) or as a continuation of in-person intervention. Telehealth coaching: The telehealth coaching intervention was informed by the Community-Early Start Denver Model (C-ESDM) materials. Twelve session-specific visuals with simple-text (for caregivers) and session scripts (for non-specialist coaches) were developed by the research team. Over 12, 1-hour asynchronous caregiver coaching sessions that are delivered by non-specialists, caregivers were coached in strategies to increase child attention to their social world, increase child communication, create and build joint activity routines, and understand and use the ABCs to support the development of new behaviors. The session itself being delivered via phone. Prior to the coaching session staff shared session materials with the family via WhatsApp. Prior to the session the caregiver shared a 6-min video of an interaction with their child. During the session, the caregiver and coach reviewed the video, and the caregiver completed a self-reflection checklist.
Children With Typical Development
n=2 Participants
Participants in this arm will be children with typical development. No intervention.
Children With Developmental Delay
n=1 Participants
Participants in this arm will be children with developmental delay. No intervention.
Caregiver Affect Measured by the Joint Engagement Rating Inventory (JERI)
Baseline
4 score on a scale
Interval 4.0 to 5.0
5 score on a scale
Interval 4.0 to 7.0
5 score on a scale
Interval 5.0 to 5.0
3 score on a scale
Interval 3.0 to 3.0
Caregiver Affect Measured by the Joint Engagement Rating Inventory (JERI)
Follow-up
4.5 score on a scale
Interval 4.0 to 6.0
5 score on a scale
Interval 4.0 to 7.0

PRIMARY outcome

Timeframe: Baseline

Population: Only applicable to Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD, Children with typical development, and Children with developmental delay groups. This measure was introduced later in the study and therefore not administered to all participants. Data not collected on the Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (Telehealth Intervention) group.

Joint attention skills will be measured using the Early Social Communication Scales (ESCS) in the ASD group; the typically developing group; and the developmental delay group. The ESCS assesses nonverbal communication skills, is normed for typically developing children 18 to 30 months of age in addition to children with developmental delay expressive language level is in approximately the same range. Frequency scores for initiation of joint attention (IJA) will be derived from behavioral observations during a series of tasks presented by an examiner blind to child diagnosis. IJA score ranges from 0 to 100 where a higher value indicates greater initiation of joint attention.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (In-person Intervention ONLY)
n=9 Participants
Participants in this arm will be caregivers of and children with ASD. Early Start Denver Model (ESDM): Twelve one hour sessions, skill is introduced by "Help is in your hands" Community ESDM videos. Session skills include specific strategies caregivers can use to increase their child's attention to people and their child's communication; strategies to identify, create and use joint activity routines to engage with and teach their child; in addition to ways to use the ABCs of learning to teach their child new behaviors. "Help is in your hands" Community ESDM materials also provide video examples of other caregivers using the session skill with their child. The early childhood development practitioner then coaches the caregiver in the session skill, in at least two activities. The goal of coaching was to provide enough support for the caregiver to experience success in implementing the new skill with their child. Coaching is followed by caregiver reflection and a discussion of generalization of the new skill across various daily activities, using a daily activities visual aid.
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (Telehealth Intervention)
Participants in this arm will be caregivers of and children with ASD receiving only telehealth intervention (adaptation due to COVID-19 restrictions) or as a continuation of in-person intervention. Telehealth coaching: The telehealth coaching intervention was informed by the Community-Early Start Denver Model (C-ESDM) materials. Twelve session-specific visuals with simple-text (for caregivers) and session scripts (for non-specialist coaches) were developed by the research team. Over 12, 1-hour asynchronous caregiver coaching sessions that are delivered by non-specialists, caregivers were coached in strategies to increase child attention to their social world, increase child communication, create and build joint activity routines, and understand and use the ABCs to support the development of new behaviors. The session itself being delivered via phone. Prior to the coaching session staff shared session materials with the family via WhatsApp. Prior to the session the caregiver shared a 6-min video of an interaction with their child. During the session, the caregiver and coach reviewed the video, and the caregiver completed a self-reflection checklist.
Children With Typical Development
n=1 Participants
Participants in this arm will be children with typical development. No intervention.
Children With Developmental Delay
n=1 Participants
Participants in this arm will be children with developmental delay. No intervention.
Initiation of Joint Attention (IJA) Measured by the Early Social Communication Scales (ESCS)
8.33 score on a scale
Interval 0.0 to 19.0
69 score on a scale
Interval 69.0 to 69.0
27 score on a scale
Interval 27.0 to 27.0

PRIMARY outcome

Timeframe: Baseline

Population: Only applicable to Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD, Children with typical development, and Children with developmental delay groups. This measure was introduced later in the study and therefore not administered to all participants. Data not collected on the Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (Telehealth Intervention) group.

Joint attention skills will be measured using the Early Social Communication Scales (ESCS) in the ASD group; the typically developing group; and the developmental delay group. The ESCS assesses nonverbal communication skills, is normed for typically developing children 18 to 30 months of age in addition to children with developmental delay expressive language level is in approximately the same range. Frequency scores for response to joint attention (RJA) will be derived from behavioral observations during a series of tasks presented by an examiner blind to child diagnosis. RJA score ranges from 0 to 20 where a higher value indicates greater response to joint attention.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (In-person Intervention ONLY)
n=9 Participants
Participants in this arm will be caregivers of and children with ASD. Early Start Denver Model (ESDM): Twelve one hour sessions, skill is introduced by "Help is in your hands" Community ESDM videos. Session skills include specific strategies caregivers can use to increase their child's attention to people and their child's communication; strategies to identify, create and use joint activity routines to engage with and teach their child; in addition to ways to use the ABCs of learning to teach their child new behaviors. "Help is in your hands" Community ESDM materials also provide video examples of other caregivers using the session skill with their child. The early childhood development practitioner then coaches the caregiver in the session skill, in at least two activities. The goal of coaching was to provide enough support for the caregiver to experience success in implementing the new skill with their child. Coaching is followed by caregiver reflection and a discussion of generalization of the new skill across various daily activities, using a daily activities visual aid.
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (Telehealth Intervention)
Participants in this arm will be caregivers of and children with ASD receiving only telehealth intervention (adaptation due to COVID-19 restrictions) or as a continuation of in-person intervention. Telehealth coaching: The telehealth coaching intervention was informed by the Community-Early Start Denver Model (C-ESDM) materials. Twelve session-specific visuals with simple-text (for caregivers) and session scripts (for non-specialist coaches) were developed by the research team. Over 12, 1-hour asynchronous caregiver coaching sessions that are delivered by non-specialists, caregivers were coached in strategies to increase child attention to their social world, increase child communication, create and build joint activity routines, and understand and use the ABCs to support the development of new behaviors. The session itself being delivered via phone. Prior to the coaching session staff shared session materials with the family via WhatsApp. Prior to the session the caregiver shared a 6-min video of an interaction with their child. During the session, the caregiver and coach reviewed the video, and the caregiver completed a self-reflection checklist.
Children With Typical Development
n=1 Participants
Participants in this arm will be children with typical development. No intervention.
Children With Developmental Delay
n=1 Participants
Participants in this arm will be children with developmental delay. No intervention.
Response to Joint Attention (RJA) Measured by the Early Social Communication Scales (ESCS)
5 score on a scale
Interval 1.0 to 13.0
15 score on a scale
Interval 15.0 to 15.0
7 score on a scale
Interval 7.0 to 7.0

PRIMARY outcome

Timeframe: Baseline and Follow up (after 12 intervention sessions, up to 3 months)

Population: Participants who completed the study. Only applicable to child groups. Data not collected on Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (Telehealth Intervention) - Children group. Data only collected at baseline for Children with Typical Development and Children with Developmental Delay.

The Griffiths Scales of Child Development, Third Edition (Griffiths III) is a comprehensive, developmental measure for continuous use from birth to 5 years 11 months (71 months). Although not standardized in South Africa (standardization samples are from the United Kingdom and Ireland), this developmental assessment is widely used in South Africa. The Griffiths III provides an overall measure of a child's development, as well as an individual profile of strengths and needs across five areas: Foundations of Learning; Language and Communication; Eye and Hand Coordination; Personal-Social-Emotional; and Gross Motor. Developmental quotients (DQs) were calculated by (Developmental Age/Chronological Age) \*100. Griffiths III DQs range from 1 to 100 where higher scores indicate that the child performs at or near expected chronological age as compared with a normative sample of children the same age.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (In-person Intervention ONLY)
n=8 Participants
Participants in this arm will be caregivers of and children with ASD. Early Start Denver Model (ESDM): Twelve one hour sessions, skill is introduced by "Help is in your hands" Community ESDM videos. Session skills include specific strategies caregivers can use to increase their child's attention to people and their child's communication; strategies to identify, create and use joint activity routines to engage with and teach their child; in addition to ways to use the ABCs of learning to teach their child new behaviors. "Help is in your hands" Community ESDM materials also provide video examples of other caregivers using the session skill with their child. The early childhood development practitioner then coaches the caregiver in the session skill, in at least two activities. The goal of coaching was to provide enough support for the caregiver to experience success in implementing the new skill with their child. Coaching is followed by caregiver reflection and a discussion of generalization of the new skill across various daily activities, using a daily activities visual aid.
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (Telehealth Intervention)
Participants in this arm will be caregivers of and children with ASD receiving only telehealth intervention (adaptation due to COVID-19 restrictions) or as a continuation of in-person intervention. Telehealth coaching: The telehealth coaching intervention was informed by the Community-Early Start Denver Model (C-ESDM) materials. Twelve session-specific visuals with simple-text (for caregivers) and session scripts (for non-specialist coaches) were developed by the research team. Over 12, 1-hour asynchronous caregiver coaching sessions that are delivered by non-specialists, caregivers were coached in strategies to increase child attention to their social world, increase child communication, create and build joint activity routines, and understand and use the ABCs to support the development of new behaviors. The session itself being delivered via phone. Prior to the coaching session staff shared session materials with the family via WhatsApp. Prior to the session the caregiver shared a 6-min video of an interaction with their child. During the session, the caregiver and coach reviewed the video, and the caregiver completed a self-reflection checklist.
Children With Typical Development
n=2 Participants
Participants in this arm will be children with typical development. No intervention.
Children With Developmental Delay
n=1 Participants
Participants in this arm will be children with developmental delay. No intervention.
Language and Communication Developmental Quotient on the Griffiths Scales of Child Development 3rd Edition (Griffiths-III)
Baseline
57.73 units on a scale
Interval 51.16 to 64.06
114 units on a scale
Unable to calculate IQR due to insufficient number of participants/values.
50 units on a scale
Unable to calculate IQR due to insufficient number of participants/values.
Language and Communication Developmental Quotient on the Griffiths Scales of Child Development 3rd Edition (Griffiths-III)
Follow-up
62.24 units on a scale
Interval 51.28 to 70.69

PRIMARY outcome

Timeframe: Baseline and Follow up (after 12 intervention sessions, up to 3 months)

Population: Participants who completed the study. Only applicable to child groups. Data not collected on Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (Telehealth Intervention) - Children group. Data only collected at baseline for Children with Typical Development and Children with Developmental Delay.

The Griffiths Scales of Child Development, Third Edition (Griffiths III) is a comprehensive, developmental measure for continuous use from birth to 5 years 11 months (71 months). Although not standardized in South Africa (standardization samples are from the United Kingdom and Ireland), this developmental assessment is widely used in South Africa. The Griffiths III provides an overall measure of a child's development, as well as an individual profile of strengths and needs across five areas: Foundations of Learning; Language and Communication; Eye and Hand Coordination; Personal-Social-Emotional; and Gross Motor. Developmental quotients (DQs) were calculated by (Developmental Age/Chronological Age) \*100. Griffiths III DQs range from 1 to 100 where higher scores indicate that the child performs at or near expected chronological age as compared with a normative sample of children the same age.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (In-person Intervention ONLY)
n=8 Participants
Participants in this arm will be caregivers of and children with ASD. Early Start Denver Model (ESDM): Twelve one hour sessions, skill is introduced by "Help is in your hands" Community ESDM videos. Session skills include specific strategies caregivers can use to increase their child's attention to people and their child's communication; strategies to identify, create and use joint activity routines to engage with and teach their child; in addition to ways to use the ABCs of learning to teach their child new behaviors. "Help is in your hands" Community ESDM materials also provide video examples of other caregivers using the session skill with their child. The early childhood development practitioner then coaches the caregiver in the session skill, in at least two activities. The goal of coaching was to provide enough support for the caregiver to experience success in implementing the new skill with their child. Coaching is followed by caregiver reflection and a discussion of generalization of the new skill across various daily activities, using a daily activities visual aid.
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (Telehealth Intervention)
Participants in this arm will be caregivers of and children with ASD receiving only telehealth intervention (adaptation due to COVID-19 restrictions) or as a continuation of in-person intervention. Telehealth coaching: The telehealth coaching intervention was informed by the Community-Early Start Denver Model (C-ESDM) materials. Twelve session-specific visuals with simple-text (for caregivers) and session scripts (for non-specialist coaches) were developed by the research team. Over 12, 1-hour asynchronous caregiver coaching sessions that are delivered by non-specialists, caregivers were coached in strategies to increase child attention to their social world, increase child communication, create and build joint activity routines, and understand and use the ABCs to support the development of new behaviors. The session itself being delivered via phone. Prior to the coaching session staff shared session materials with the family via WhatsApp. Prior to the session the caregiver shared a 6-min video of an interaction with their child. During the session, the caregiver and coach reviewed the video, and the caregiver completed a self-reflection checklist.
Children With Typical Development
n=2 Participants
Participants in this arm will be children with typical development. No intervention.
Children With Developmental Delay
n=1 Participants
Participants in this arm will be children with developmental delay. No intervention.
Personal-Social-Emotional Developmental Quotient on the Griffiths Scales of Child Development 3rd Edition (Griffiths-III)
Baseline
63.41 units on a scale
Interval 53.49 to 71.43
115 units on a scale
Unable to calculate IQR due to insufficient number of participants/values.
83.33 units on a scale
Unable to calculate IQR due to insufficient number of participants/values.
Personal-Social-Emotional Developmental Quotient on the Griffiths Scales of Child Development 3rd Edition (Griffiths-III)
Follow-up
65.53 units on a scale
Interval 58.33 to 73.91

PRIMARY outcome

Timeframe: Baseline and Follow up (after 12 intervention sessions, up to 3 months)

Population: Participants who completed the study. Only applicable to the Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD groups.

The Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales, Third Edition (Vineland-3) is an individually-administered measure of adaptive behavior that is widely used to assess individuals with intellectual, developmental, and other disabilities. The Vineland-3 contains 5 domains each with 2-3 subdomains. The main domains are: Communication, Daily Living Skills, Socialization, Motor Skills, and Maladaptive Behavior. The Caregiver Interview Form uses the Vineland semistructured interview technique to elicit information about the examinee's adaptive functioning from a parent or caregiver. Item responses are collected on a 3-point Likert scale with values representing 0 (never), 1 (sometimes), and 2 (usually or often) to capture frequency of target behavior. Some items require binary responses (yes/no). The VABS-3 Socialization subscale score ranges from 20-140 where a higher score indicates greater frequency of target behavior.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (In-person Intervention ONLY)
n=8 Participants
Participants in this arm will be caregivers of and children with ASD. Early Start Denver Model (ESDM): Twelve one hour sessions, skill is introduced by "Help is in your hands" Community ESDM videos. Session skills include specific strategies caregivers can use to increase their child's attention to people and their child's communication; strategies to identify, create and use joint activity routines to engage with and teach their child; in addition to ways to use the ABCs of learning to teach their child new behaviors. "Help is in your hands" Community ESDM materials also provide video examples of other caregivers using the session skill with their child. The early childhood development practitioner then coaches the caregiver in the session skill, in at least two activities. The goal of coaching was to provide enough support for the caregiver to experience success in implementing the new skill with their child. Coaching is followed by caregiver reflection and a discussion of generalization of the new skill across various daily activities, using a daily activities visual aid.
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (Telehealth Intervention)
n=9 Participants
Participants in this arm will be caregivers of and children with ASD receiving only telehealth intervention (adaptation due to COVID-19 restrictions) or as a continuation of in-person intervention. Telehealth coaching: The telehealth coaching intervention was informed by the Community-Early Start Denver Model (C-ESDM) materials. Twelve session-specific visuals with simple-text (for caregivers) and session scripts (for non-specialist coaches) were developed by the research team. Over 12, 1-hour asynchronous caregiver coaching sessions that are delivered by non-specialists, caregivers were coached in strategies to increase child attention to their social world, increase child communication, create and build joint activity routines, and understand and use the ABCs to support the development of new behaviors. The session itself being delivered via phone. Prior to the coaching session staff shared session materials with the family via WhatsApp. Prior to the session the caregiver shared a 6-min video of an interaction with their child. During the session, the caregiver and coach reviewed the video, and the caregiver completed a self-reflection checklist.
Children With Typical Development
Participants in this arm will be children with typical development. No intervention.
Children With Developmental Delay
Participants in this arm will be children with developmental delay. No intervention.
Socialization Subscale Standard Score on the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales - 3rd Edition (VABS-3)
Baseline
61 score on a scale
Interval 42.0 to 77.0
63 score on a scale
Interval 46.0 to 73.0
Socialization Subscale Standard Score on the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales - 3rd Edition (VABS-3)
Follow-up
67.5 score on a scale
Interval 42.0 to 84.0
61 score on a scale
Interval 54.0 to 73.0

PRIMARY outcome

Timeframe: Baseline and Follow up (after 12 intervention sessions, up to 3 months)

Population: Participants who completed the study. Only applicable to the Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD groups.

The Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales, Third Edition (Vineland-3) is an individually-administered measure of adaptive behavior that is widely used to assess individuals with intellectual, developmental, and other disabilities. The Vineland-3 contains 5 domains each with 2-3 subdomains. The main domains are: Communication, Daily Living Skills, Socialization, Motor Skills, and Maladaptive Behavior. The Caregiver Interview Form uses the Vineland semistructured interview technique to elicit information about the examinee's adaptive functioning from a parent or caregiver. Item responses are collected on a 3-point Likert scale with values representing 0 (never), 1 (sometimes), and 2 (usually or often) to capture frequency of target behavior. Some items require binary responses (yes/no). The VABS-3 Communication subscale score ranges from 20-140 where a higher score indicates greater frequency of target behavior.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (In-person Intervention ONLY)
n=8 Participants
Participants in this arm will be caregivers of and children with ASD. Early Start Denver Model (ESDM): Twelve one hour sessions, skill is introduced by "Help is in your hands" Community ESDM videos. Session skills include specific strategies caregivers can use to increase their child's attention to people and their child's communication; strategies to identify, create and use joint activity routines to engage with and teach their child; in addition to ways to use the ABCs of learning to teach their child new behaviors. "Help is in your hands" Community ESDM materials also provide video examples of other caregivers using the session skill with their child. The early childhood development practitioner then coaches the caregiver in the session skill, in at least two activities. The goal of coaching was to provide enough support for the caregiver to experience success in implementing the new skill with their child. Coaching is followed by caregiver reflection and a discussion of generalization of the new skill across various daily activities, using a daily activities visual aid.
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (Telehealth Intervention)
n=9 Participants
Participants in this arm will be caregivers of and children with ASD receiving only telehealth intervention (adaptation due to COVID-19 restrictions) or as a continuation of in-person intervention. Telehealth coaching: The telehealth coaching intervention was informed by the Community-Early Start Denver Model (C-ESDM) materials. Twelve session-specific visuals with simple-text (for caregivers) and session scripts (for non-specialist coaches) were developed by the research team. Over 12, 1-hour asynchronous caregiver coaching sessions that are delivered by non-specialists, caregivers were coached in strategies to increase child attention to their social world, increase child communication, create and build joint activity routines, and understand and use the ABCs to support the development of new behaviors. The session itself being delivered via phone. Prior to the coaching session staff shared session materials with the family via WhatsApp. Prior to the session the caregiver shared a 6-min video of an interaction with their child. During the session, the caregiver and coach reviewed the video, and the caregiver completed a self-reflection checklist.
Children With Typical Development
Participants in this arm will be children with typical development. No intervention.
Children With Developmental Delay
Participants in this arm will be children with developmental delay. No intervention.
Communication Subscale Standard Score on the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales - 3rd Edition (VABS-3)
Baseline
41 score on a scale
Interval 26.0 to 62.0
34 score on a scale
Interval 20.0 to 76.0
Communication Subscale Standard Score on the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales - 3rd Edition (VABS-3)
Follow-up
50 score on a scale
Interval 28.0 to 64.0
40 score on a scale
Interval 32.0 to 70.0

SECONDARY outcome

Timeframe: Follow-up (within 2 weeks of ending sessions)

Population: Participants who completed the study. Only applicable to Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (Telehealth Intervention) - Caregivers, Early Childhood Development (ECD) Practitioners and ECD Practitioner School Supervisors, and Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) Supervisors groups.

A 5-item scale that measures the extent to which a new treatment, or an innovation, can be successfully used or carried out within a given agency or setting. Scores are indicated on a scale of 1 - 5 with higher scores indicating greater acceptability.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (In-person Intervention ONLY)
n=9 Participants
Participants in this arm will be caregivers of and children with ASD. Early Start Denver Model (ESDM): Twelve one hour sessions, skill is introduced by "Help is in your hands" Community ESDM videos. Session skills include specific strategies caregivers can use to increase their child's attention to people and their child's communication; strategies to identify, create and use joint activity routines to engage with and teach their child; in addition to ways to use the ABCs of learning to teach their child new behaviors. "Help is in your hands" Community ESDM materials also provide video examples of other caregivers using the session skill with their child. The early childhood development practitioner then coaches the caregiver in the session skill, in at least two activities. The goal of coaching was to provide enough support for the caregiver to experience success in implementing the new skill with their child. Coaching is followed by caregiver reflection and a discussion of generalization of the new skill across various daily activities, using a daily activities visual aid.
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (Telehealth Intervention)
n=3 Participants
Participants in this arm will be caregivers of and children with ASD receiving only telehealth intervention (adaptation due to COVID-19 restrictions) or as a continuation of in-person intervention. Telehealth coaching: The telehealth coaching intervention was informed by the Community-Early Start Denver Model (C-ESDM) materials. Twelve session-specific visuals with simple-text (for caregivers) and session scripts (for non-specialist coaches) were developed by the research team. Over 12, 1-hour asynchronous caregiver coaching sessions that are delivered by non-specialists, caregivers were coached in strategies to increase child attention to their social world, increase child communication, create and build joint activity routines, and understand and use the ABCs to support the development of new behaviors. The session itself being delivered via phone. Prior to the coaching session staff shared session materials with the family via WhatsApp. Prior to the session the caregiver shared a 6-min video of an interaction with their child. During the session, the caregiver and coach reviewed the video, and the caregiver completed a self-reflection checklist.
Children With Typical Development
n=3 Participants
Participants in this arm will be children with typical development. No intervention.
Children With Developmental Delay
Participants in this arm will be children with developmental delay. No intervention.
Acceptability of Telehealth Intervention (as Measured by the Acceptability of Intervention Measure, AIM)
4.25 score on a scale
Standard Deviation 0.4
4.66 score on a scale
Standard Deviation 0.6
4.78 score on a scale
Standard Deviation 0.1

SECONDARY outcome

Timeframe: Follow-up (within 2 weeks of ending sessions)

Population: Participants who completed the study. Only applicable to Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (Telehealth Intervention) - Caregivers, Early Childhood Development (ECD) Practitioners and ECD Practitioner School Supervisors, and Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) Supervisors groups.

A 5-item scale that measures the extent to which a new treatment, or an innovation, can be successfully used or carried out within a given agency or setting. Scores are indicated on a scale of 1-5 with higher scores indicating greater appropriateness.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (In-person Intervention ONLY)
n=9 Participants
Participants in this arm will be caregivers of and children with ASD. Early Start Denver Model (ESDM): Twelve one hour sessions, skill is introduced by "Help is in your hands" Community ESDM videos. Session skills include specific strategies caregivers can use to increase their child's attention to people and their child's communication; strategies to identify, create and use joint activity routines to engage with and teach their child; in addition to ways to use the ABCs of learning to teach their child new behaviors. "Help is in your hands" Community ESDM materials also provide video examples of other caregivers using the session skill with their child. The early childhood development practitioner then coaches the caregiver in the session skill, in at least two activities. The goal of coaching was to provide enough support for the caregiver to experience success in implementing the new skill with their child. Coaching is followed by caregiver reflection and a discussion of generalization of the new skill across various daily activities, using a daily activities visual aid.
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (Telehealth Intervention)
n=3 Participants
Participants in this arm will be caregivers of and children with ASD receiving only telehealth intervention (adaptation due to COVID-19 restrictions) or as a continuation of in-person intervention. Telehealth coaching: The telehealth coaching intervention was informed by the Community-Early Start Denver Model (C-ESDM) materials. Twelve session-specific visuals with simple-text (for caregivers) and session scripts (for non-specialist coaches) were developed by the research team. Over 12, 1-hour asynchronous caregiver coaching sessions that are delivered by non-specialists, caregivers were coached in strategies to increase child attention to their social world, increase child communication, create and build joint activity routines, and understand and use the ABCs to support the development of new behaviors. The session itself being delivered via phone. Prior to the coaching session staff shared session materials with the family via WhatsApp. Prior to the session the caregiver shared a 6-min video of an interaction with their child. During the session, the caregiver and coach reviewed the video, and the caregiver completed a self-reflection checklist.
Children With Typical Development
n=3 Participants
Participants in this arm will be children with typical development. No intervention.
Children With Developmental Delay
Participants in this arm will be children with developmental delay. No intervention.
Appropriateness of Telehealth Intervention (as Measured by the Intervention Appropriateness Measure, IAM)
4.47 score on a scale
Standard Deviation 0.4
4.66 score on a scale
Standard Deviation 0.6
4.66 score on a scale
Standard Deviation 0.8

SECONDARY outcome

Timeframe: Follow-up (within 2 weeks of ending sessions)

Population: Participants who completed the study. Only applicable to Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (Telehealth Intervention) - Caregivers, Early Childhood Development (ECD) Practitioners and ECD Practitioner School Supervisors, and Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) Supervisors groups.

A 5-item scale that measures the extent to which a new treatment, or an innovation, can be successfully used or carried out within a given agency or setting. Scores are indicated on a scale of 1-5 with higher scores indicating greater feasibility.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (In-person Intervention ONLY)
n=9 Participants
Participants in this arm will be caregivers of and children with ASD. Early Start Denver Model (ESDM): Twelve one hour sessions, skill is introduced by "Help is in your hands" Community ESDM videos. Session skills include specific strategies caregivers can use to increase their child's attention to people and their child's communication; strategies to identify, create and use joint activity routines to engage with and teach their child; in addition to ways to use the ABCs of learning to teach their child new behaviors. "Help is in your hands" Community ESDM materials also provide video examples of other caregivers using the session skill with their child. The early childhood development practitioner then coaches the caregiver in the session skill, in at least two activities. The goal of coaching was to provide enough support for the caregiver to experience success in implementing the new skill with their child. Coaching is followed by caregiver reflection and a discussion of generalization of the new skill across various daily activities, using a daily activities visual aid.
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (Telehealth Intervention)
n=3 Participants
Participants in this arm will be caregivers of and children with ASD receiving only telehealth intervention (adaptation due to COVID-19 restrictions) or as a continuation of in-person intervention. Telehealth coaching: The telehealth coaching intervention was informed by the Community-Early Start Denver Model (C-ESDM) materials. Twelve session-specific visuals with simple-text (for caregivers) and session scripts (for non-specialist coaches) were developed by the research team. Over 12, 1-hour asynchronous caregiver coaching sessions that are delivered by non-specialists, caregivers were coached in strategies to increase child attention to their social world, increase child communication, create and build joint activity routines, and understand and use the ABCs to support the development of new behaviors. The session itself being delivered via phone. Prior to the coaching session staff shared session materials with the family via WhatsApp. Prior to the session the caregiver shared a 6-min video of an interaction with their child. During the session, the caregiver and coach reviewed the video, and the caregiver completed a self-reflection checklist.
Children With Typical Development
n=3 Participants
Participants in this arm will be children with typical development. No intervention.
Children With Developmental Delay
Participants in this arm will be children with developmental delay. No intervention.
Feasibility of Intervention (as Measured by the Feasibility of Intervention Measure, FIM)
4.14 score on a scale
Standard Deviation 0.4
4.66 score on a scale
Standard Deviation 0.6
4.9 score on a scale
Standard Deviation 0.1

SECONDARY outcome

Timeframe: Baseline and Follow-up (up to 4 months)

Population: Participants who completed the study. Only applicable to the Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD Caregiver groups.

ESDM Fidelity Rating System uses a 13 item rating scale that includes ratings of performance on core intervention strategies from 1 to 5 (1 represents a lack of an effective display of the practices specified, and 5 represents the best possible example of this teaching behavior). Fidelity of implementation of Naturalistic Developmental Behavioral Intervention (NDBI) strategies will be manually coded by certified ESDM therapists. Mean fidelity scores (with SD) will be calculated across study participants in order to assess change in NDBI strategies. ESDM Fidelity Rating System scores range from 0 to 100 with a higher score reflecting interactions closer to ESDM principles.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (In-person Intervention ONLY)
n=8 Participants
Participants in this arm will be caregivers of and children with ASD. Early Start Denver Model (ESDM): Twelve one hour sessions, skill is introduced by "Help is in your hands" Community ESDM videos. Session skills include specific strategies caregivers can use to increase their child's attention to people and their child's communication; strategies to identify, create and use joint activity routines to engage with and teach their child; in addition to ways to use the ABCs of learning to teach their child new behaviors. "Help is in your hands" Community ESDM materials also provide video examples of other caregivers using the session skill with their child. The early childhood development practitioner then coaches the caregiver in the session skill, in at least two activities. The goal of coaching was to provide enough support for the caregiver to experience success in implementing the new skill with their child. Coaching is followed by caregiver reflection and a discussion of generalization of the new skill across various daily activities, using a daily activities visual aid.
Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (Telehealth Intervention)
n=9 Participants
Participants in this arm will be caregivers of and children with ASD receiving only telehealth intervention (adaptation due to COVID-19 restrictions) or as a continuation of in-person intervention. Telehealth coaching: The telehealth coaching intervention was informed by the Community-Early Start Denver Model (C-ESDM) materials. Twelve session-specific visuals with simple-text (for caregivers) and session scripts (for non-specialist coaches) were developed by the research team. Over 12, 1-hour asynchronous caregiver coaching sessions that are delivered by non-specialists, caregivers were coached in strategies to increase child attention to their social world, increase child communication, create and build joint activity routines, and understand and use the ABCs to support the development of new behaviors. The session itself being delivered via phone. Prior to the coaching session staff shared session materials with the family via WhatsApp. Prior to the session the caregiver shared a 6-min video of an interaction with their child. During the session, the caregiver and coach reviewed the video, and the caregiver completed a self-reflection checklist.
Children With Typical Development
Participants in this arm will be children with typical development. No intervention.
Children With Developmental Delay
Participants in this arm will be children with developmental delay. No intervention.
Fidelity of Intervention Delivery, as Measured by the Caregiver ESDM Fidelity Rating System
Baseline
60 score on a scale
Interval 45.0 to 67.0
55 score on a scale
Interval 44.0 to 78.0
Fidelity of Intervention Delivery, as Measured by the Caregiver ESDM Fidelity Rating System
Follow-up
75 score on a scale
Interval 65.0 to 87.0
68 score on a scale
Interval 53.0 to 83.0

OTHER_PRE_SPECIFIED outcome

Timeframe: Baseline and Baseline and Follow up (after 12 intervention sessions, up to 3 months) ASD group; Baseline typically developing and developmental delay group

SenseToKnow is an app developed for mobile devices that is designed to elicit autism risk behaviors. In order to administer the app, children sit on the parent's lap with the mobile device at eye level for the child. The app is comprised of a set of stimuli (videos and games) that are designed to elicit autism spectrum disorder (ASD) symptoms, such as facial expressions. Multi-modal time-series video-frame-level data streams from the computer vision analysis output of SenseToKnow will be summarized with descriptive statistics and visualizations. We extract landmarks and determine the correct features from them to yield precise measurements of attention, gaze, affect, and posture. Each computer vision analysis feature will be transformed into one or more binary, count, or continuous participant-level summary variable (for e.g. number of times orienting to name).

Outcome measures

Outcome data not reported

OTHER_PRE_SPECIFIED outcome

Timeframe: Baseline and Baseline and Follow up (after 12 intervention sessions, up to 3 months) ASD group; Baseline typically developing and developmental delay group

SenseToKnow is an app developed for mobile devices that is designed to elicit autism risk behaviors. In order to administer the app, children sit on the parent's lap with the mobile device at eye level for the child. The app is comprised of a set of stimuli (videos and games) that are designed to elicit autism spectrum disorder (ASD) symptoms, such as facial expressions. Multi-modal time-series video-frame-level data streams from the computer vision analysis output of SenseToKnow will be summarized with descriptive statistics and visualizations. We extract landmarks and determine the correct features from them to yield precise measurements of attention, gaze, affect, and posture. Each computer vision analysis feature will be transformed into one or more binary, count, or continuous participant-level summary variable (for e.g. number of times orienting to name).

Outcome measures

Outcome data not reported

OTHER_PRE_SPECIFIED outcome

Timeframe: Baseline and Baseline and Follow up (after 12 intervention sessions, up to 3 months) ASD group; Baseline typically developing and developmental delay group

SenseToKnow is an app developed for mobile devices that is designed to elicit autism risk behaviors. In order to administer the app, children sit on the parent's lap with the mobile device at eye level for the child. The app is comprised of a set of stimuli (videos and games) that are designed to elicit autism spectrum disorder (ASD) symptoms, such as facial expressions. Multi-modal time-series video-frame-level data streams from the computer vision analysis output of SenseToKnow will be summarized with descriptive statistics and visualizations. We extract landmarks and determine the correct features from them to yield precise measurements of attention, gaze, affect, and posture. Each computer vision analysis feature will be transformed into one or more binary, count, or continuous participant-level summary variable (for e.g. number of times orienting to name).

Outcome measures

Outcome data not reported

OTHER_PRE_SPECIFIED outcome

Timeframe: Baseline and fBaseline and Follow up (after 12 intervention sessions, up to 3 months) ASD group; Baseline typically developing and developmental delay group

SenseToKnow is an app developed for mobile devices that is designed to elicit autism risk behaviors. In order to administer the app, children sit on the parent's lap with the mobile device at eye level for the child. The app is comprised of a set of stimuli (videos and games) that are designed to elicit autism spectrum disorder (ASD) symptoms, such as facial expressions. Multi-modal time-series video-frame-level data streams from the computer vision analysis output of SenseToKnow will be summarized with descriptive statistics and visualizations. We extract landmarks and determine the correct features from them to yield precise measurements of attention, gaze, affect, and posture. Each computer vision analysis feature will be transformed into one or more binary, count, or continuous participant-level summary variable (for e.g. number of times orienting to name).

Outcome measures

Outcome data not reported

Adverse Events

Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (In-person Intervention ONLY) - Caregivers

Serious events: 0 serious events
Other events: 0 other events
Deaths: 0 deaths

Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (In-person Intervention ONLY) - Children

Serious events: 0 serious events
Other events: 0 other events
Deaths: 0 deaths

Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (In-person, Then Telehealth Intervention) - Caregivers

Serious events: 0 serious events
Other events: 0 other events
Deaths: 0 deaths

Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (In-person, Then Telehealth Intervention) - Children

Serious events: 0 serious events
Other events: 0 other events
Deaths: 0 deaths

Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (Telehealth Intervention ONLY) - Caregivers

Serious events: 0 serious events
Other events: 0 other events
Deaths: 0 deaths

Caregiver-Child Dyads With ASD (Telehealth Intervention ONLY) - Children

Serious events: 0 serious events
Other events: 0 other events
Deaths: 0 deaths

Children With Typical Development

Serious events: 0 serious events
Other events: 0 other events
Deaths: 0 deaths

Children With Developmental Delay

Serious events: 0 serious events
Other events: 0 other events
Deaths: 0 deaths

Early Childhood Development (ECD) Practitioners and ECD Practitioner School Supervisors

Serious events: 0 serious events
Other events: 0 other events
Deaths: 0 deaths

Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) Supervisors

Serious events: 0 serious events
Other events: 0 other events
Deaths: 0 deaths

Serious adverse events

Adverse event data not reported

Other adverse events

Adverse event data not reported

Additional Information

Lauren Franz MBChB, MPH

Duke University

Phone: 919-681-0023

Results disclosure agreements

  • Principal investigator is a sponsor employee
  • Publication restrictions are in place