We developed an iOS app, the iSTIM, designed to support parents of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) in reducing common repetitive vocal and motor behavior (i.e., stereotypy). The purpose of our study was to preliminarily test the decision-making algorithms of the iSTIM using trained university students to implement the assessments and interventions. Specifically, we examined the effects of the iSTIM on stereotypy and functional engagement in 11 children with ASD within alternating treatment designs. Using the iSTIM reduced engagement in stereotypy for eight participants and increased functional engagement for four of those participants. Our results indicate that the iSTIM may decrease engagement in stereotypy but that some of the decision-making algorithms may benefit from modifications prior to testing with parents.

declares that they have no conflict of interest. Marc J. Lanovaz declares that he owns the intellectual property rights for the iSTIM.

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Despite showing robust effects in well-controlled studies, the extent to which early intensive behavioral intervention produces positive changes in naturalistic, community-based settings remains uncertain. Thus, our study examined changes in autistic symptoms and adaptive functioning in 233 children in children with autism receiving early behavioral intervention in a community setting. The results revealed nonlinear changes in adaptive functioning characterized by significant improvements during the intervention period and a small linear decrease in autistic symptoms from baseline to follow-up. The intensity of intervention, age at enrolment, IQ and autistic symptoms were associated either with progress during the intervention period or maintenance during the follow-up period. Taken together, these results underline the importance of conducting further replications in community settings.