This study will help us understand how different ways of speaking, such as using single words versus full sentences, affect language learning and real time understanding in autistic children.

Your child may be eligible for this study if they meet the following criteria.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Ages 1-4
• Diagnosed with autism
• English is the primary language spoken at home
• Have unimpaired vision and hearing

• You’ll schedule two in-person visits to our MSU lab, each lasting 2–3 hours.

• Your child will complete fun, play-based language and developmental assessments.

• During short eye-tracking tasks, your child will look at pictures while listening to words, no responses needed.

• You’ll fill out a few questionnaires about your child’s development.

• You and your child will also participate in a 10-minute play session during each visit.

• Snacks will be provided, and we offer childcare for siblings if needed.

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Yes! Families receive $25 for each hour of participation, gas mileage reimbursement, and a hotel stay if you’re more than 30 miles away. Children get to choose a free book or toy, and you’ll receive a written report of your child’s assessment results.

There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.