New Play-Based training could help autistic kids learn to imitate
NCT ID NCT05849376
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study tests a new training program called EMIT that helps young autistic children learn to imitate others. Imitation is a key skill for learning and social interaction. The program uses play-based exercises to teach children how to copy actions, sounds, and object use. The study will include 25 children aged 5 or under to see if the training works.
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Study facts
What this study's own registry entry says, in plain language.
- Phase
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Not a phased trial
Phase numbers describe drug development. The registry uses this when they do not apply, as it does for trials of devices, procedures or behaviour changes, and for observational studies.
- Participants
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About 25 people
The number the study aims to enrol. It can still change while the study runs.
- Started
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Mar 2022
- Expected to finish
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Aug 2027
An estimate. End dates often move.
- Lead sponsor
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Other sponsor
The registry's catch-all category, for sponsors it does not file as a company, a government agency, or a research network.
Who can take part
This study's own entry requirements. Only the study team can say for certain whether you qualify.
- Ages
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12 months to 6 years
- Sex
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Anyone
- Healthy volunteers
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Not accepted
This study is not open to healthy volunteers. The entry requirements below say who it is open to.
Show the full entry requirements Hide the full entry requirements
Copied word for word from the study's registry entry, so the wording is the study team's rather than ours.
Inclusion Criteria: * Diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder * Age 5 or under * Maximum score of 40 on Motor Vocal Imitation Assessment * Demonstrates identity matching above chance levels Exclusion Criteria: * Diagnosis of intellectual disability * Diagnosis of certain conditions that impact motor function (e.g., cerebral palsy) * Visual impairment * Hearing impairment
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
How to take part
Only the study team decides who joins. These are the ways to reach them.
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The places running it
1 site. The list below names each one and where it is.
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The official record
ClinicalTrials.gov lists the study team's own contact details, including names and phone numbers. We don't republish those.
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A doctor treating you
A doctor who knows your case can contact a study site on your behalf, and can tell you whether this study is worth pursuing at all.
Contacts and locations
Locations
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Rutgers University
RECRUITINGNew Brunswick, New Jersey, 08901, United States
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Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.
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