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Randomized Controlled Trial for Early Intervention for Autism: A Pilot Study of the Autism 1-2-3 Project

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Abstract

We piloted a 2-week “Autism-1-2-3” early intervention for children with autism and their parents immediately after diagnosis that targeted at (1) eye contact, (2) gesture and (3) vocalization/words. Seventeen children were randomized into the Intervention (n = 9) and Control (n = 8) groups. Outcome measures included the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Ritvo-Freeman Real Life Rating Scale, Symbolic Play Test, and Parenting Stress Index. Children with autism improved in language/communication, reciprocal social interaction, and symbolic play. Parents perceived significant improvement in their children’s language, social interaction, and their own stress level. This intervention can serve as short-term training on communication and social interaction for children with autism, and reduce the stress of their parents during the long waiting time for public health services.

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Acknowledgments

We would like to thank the Autism Research Unit of the University of Toronto (Professor Wendy Roberts) and Shelley Mitchell (speech therapist) for their enthusiasm in teaching our DKCAC staff in early intervention for children with autism in 2006.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Division of Child Neurology/Developmental Paediatrics/Neurohabilitation, Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China

    Virginia C. N. Wong & Queenie K. Kwan

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  1. Virginia C. N. Wong
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  2. Queenie K. Kwan
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Correspondence to Virginia C. N. Wong.

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Wong, V.C.N., Kwan, Q.K. Randomized Controlled Trial for Early Intervention for Autism: A Pilot Study of the Autism 1-2-3 Project. J Autism Dev Disord 40, 677–688 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-009-0916-z

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-009-0916-z

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