Project ImPACT for Toddlers: Pilot outcomes of a community adaptation of an intervention for autism risk

Lay abstract This study reports how well children and families did after participating in a community program as part of an early study of an intervention called Project ImPACT for Toddlers that is a parent-led intervention with research support that can be done during regular activities. A group of community providers, parents, and researchers worked together to help the intervention fit a community program for children with or at-risk for autism spectrum disorder. Community early interventionists delivered either Project ImPACT for Toddlers (n = 10) or did what they usually do (usual care; n = 9) with families based on their training. Twenty-five families participated, with children averaging 22.76 months old. Parents and children completed some tests and play activities when they started the program, after 3 months of service and after a 3-month follow-up. Results show greater improvements in positive parent-child interactions for Project ImPACT for Toddlers than usual care families, and somewhat more change for Project ImPACT for Toddlers families in children's social and communication skills.