Teaching socio‐communicative behaviours in play routines with caregivers: a feasibility study

The first signs of autism often become evident as early as before a child's first birthday, and very early intervention is key to securing optimal outcomes. In the present study, two mother–child dyads participated, with mothers being trained in behavioural strategies targeting socio-communicative behaviours in their children, who were high-probability siblings of an older child diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. Both mothers demonstrated increased use of naturalistic behavioural strategies and excellent indices of maintenance and generalisation upon the conclusion of training. Children's progress was measured in imitation, respondent joint attention and speaker behaviour, showing promising results in areas of significant concern at intake. Mothers' satisfaction was assessed using a social validity questionnaire, and measures of children's assent were collected, supporting the intervention as feasible and enjoyable for both dyads.