Enhancing Early Intervention for Caregivers of Autistic Children with Online Reciprocal Imitation Training Learning Modules
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| Title: | Enhancing Early Intervention for Caregivers of Autistic Children with Online Reciprocal Imitation Training Learning Modules |
|---|---|
| Language: | English |
| Authors: | Johanna P. Higgins (ORCID |
| Source: | Topics in Early Childhood Special Education. 2026 45(4):291-304. |
| Availability: | SAGE Publications and Hammill Institute on Disabilities. 2455 Teller Road, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320. Tel: 800-818-7243; Tel: 805-499-9774; Fax: 800-583-2665; e-mail: journals@sagepub.com; Web site: https://sagepub.com |
| Peer Reviewed: | Y |
| Page Count: | 14 |
| Publication Date: | 2026 |
| Document Type: | Journal Articles Reports - Research |
| Education Level: | Adult Education |
| Descriptors: | Autism Spectrum Disorders, Early Intervention, Imitation, Behavior Modification, Program Effectiveness, Barriers, Educational Legislation, Equal Education, Federal Legislation, Students with Disabilities, Infants, Toddlers, Caregiver Training, Mothers, Parent Education |
| Laws, Policies and Program Identifiers: | Individuals with Disabilities Education Act Part C |
| Assessment and Survey Identifiers: | Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Childhood Autism Rating Scale, Communication and Symbolic Behavior Scales |
| DOI: | 10.1177/02711214241292030 |
| ISSN: | 0271-1214 1538-4845 |
| Abstract: | In this study, we taught caregivers of four young autistic children to implement Reciprocal Imitation Training (RIT), a focused naturalistic developmental behavioral intervention (NDBI), using a hybrid approach in which we combined online modules with in vivo coaching. Early Intervention (Part C) services are often the first to support autistic children; therefore, providers must focus on training caregivers to deliver NDBIs such as RIT, within daily activities that are meaningful to the family in the home. We used a multiple-probe design to examine the effect of home visits enhanced by online modules completed before the coaches' arrival. Results indicated caregivers acquired intervention procedures effectively after approximately six coaching sessions. While most caregivers maintained acceptable fidelity levels, outcomes for children varied, with mixed results in spontaneous imitation. We discuss considerations for providers delivering NDBIs, including factors that impacted outcomes, barriers to intervention, and recommendations for Part C services. |
| Abstractor: | As Provided |
| Entry Date: | 2026 |
| Accession Number: | EJ1496895 |
| Database: | ERIC |
| Abstract: | In this study, we taught caregivers of four young autistic children to implement Reciprocal Imitation Training (RIT), a focused naturalistic developmental behavioral intervention (NDBI), using a hybrid approach in which we combined online modules with in vivo coaching. Early Intervention (Part C) services are often the first to support autistic children; therefore, providers must focus on training caregivers to deliver NDBIs such as RIT, within daily activities that are meaningful to the family in the home. We used a multiple-probe design to examine the effect of home visits enhanced by online modules completed before the coaches' arrival. Results indicated caregivers acquired intervention procedures effectively after approximately six coaching sessions. While most caregivers maintained acceptable fidelity levels, outcomes for children varied, with mixed results in spontaneous imitation. We discuss considerations for providers delivering NDBIs, including factors that impacted outcomes, barriers to intervention, and recommendations for Part C services. |
|---|---|
| ISSN: | 0271-1214 1538-4845 |
| DOI: | 10.1177/02711214241292030 |
