๐Ÿ›๏ธ Verified NIH Record โ€ข Updated 2026-05-18

Reciprocal Imitation Training and Musical Rhythm Sensitivity in Autistic Toddlers (NCT05880225)

Musical Rhythm Sensitivity to Scaffold Social Engagement in Autism Spectrum Disorder

๐ŸŸข Recruiting Observational / Diagnostic ๐Ÿง  Behavioral & Psychological Program Sponsor: Vanderbilt University Medical Center

๐Ÿฉบ Plain-English Summary (8th-Grade Level)

The primary goal of this study is to examine rhythm sensitivity as a predictor of response to naturalistic developmental behavioral intervention (NDBIs) in autistic toddlers. Toddlers receive either Reciprocal Imitation Training (RIT), an evidence-based NDBI that supports children's imitation and social communication skills, or a music-enhanced version of RIT. Throughout their participation in the intervention, toddlers will complete study procedures of viewing naturalistic videos of infant-directed singing and other social scenes while eye gaze data is collected.

Who can join: Review the eligibility criteria below.

Location: Vanderbilt University Medical Center โ€” Nashville, Tennessee

Age range: 18 Months to 36 Months

๐Ÿงช Interventions in This Study

  • Reciprocal Imitation Training (BEHAVIORAL)
  • music-enhanced Reciprocal Imitation Training (BEHAVIORAL)

๐Ÿ“‹ "Do I Qualify?" โ€” 1-Minute Self Screener

Instant Checklist

Full eligibility criteria are available on the official NIH protocol. View the criteria โ†—

๐Ÿ“ All Participating Trial Locations (1 Sites)

  • Vanderbilt University Medical Center โ€” Nashville, Tennessee

๐Ÿ“ž Contact the Study Coordinator

Phone: (615) 322-3086

Email: miriam.lense@vumc.org

Coordinator details come directly from the registered NIH protocol. Confirm the study is still recruiting before traveling.

๐Ÿ’ฐ Cost, Insurance & Patient Rights

  • 100% Free Items: The investigational treatment and protocol-required procedures are supplied at zero cost by the sponsor.
  • Routine Patient Care: Under federal law (ACA ยง 2709) and many state statutes, routine care costs are covered during participation.
  • Voluntary Participation: You may withdraw at any time without affecting your standard medical care.

Explore by condition: All Autism clinical trials

๐Ÿ’ก How to Participate

  1. Check the checklist above to see if you may qualify.
  2. Contact the study coordinator using the phone/email above.
  3. Ask about the visit schedule, what is covered at no cost, and any travel support.
  4. Confirm with your own doctor before making a decision.
๐Ÿ›๏ธ View Official NIH Record โ†—