A Randomised Controlled Feasibility Trial of Music-Assisted Language Telehealth Intervention for Minimally Verbal Autistic Children - The MAP Study

Abstract

Background: About 30% of children with ASD do not develop functional speech and remain non-verbal or minimally verbal even after years of speech, language and educational interventions. A wide range of interventions have been developed for improving communication in ASD, but none have proved effective in eliciting functional language in ASD children [1]. Research has found that people with ASD are more likely to have perfect pitch and prefer music to language. Further, it seems that language delay tends to co-occur with better musical skills. Brain imaging research has found that music alongside words increases the attention that people with ASD pay to spoken words. Methods: Our music-assisted programmes (MAP) will use music to attract the attention of people with ASD to speech, which may open the brain pathways to language and therefore help improve communication skills for people with ASD more than standard communication protocols. In particular, we aim to develop and test whether individualised, easily used MAP would increase spoken language in 24-60-month-old, nonverbal or minimally verbal children with ASD. We will develop a structured training method, delivered through naturalistic, interactive activities (e.g., songs) to teach language to ASD children. We will test this by comparing two groups: one undertaking music-assisted programmes, and the other receiving speech and language therapy in the way that is recommended in NHS clinics [2]. Participants will be allocated to groups randomly. The efficacy of MAP will be assessed through the learning of 36 target words. The 36 words will be chosen so that they are relevant to the everyday activities that the children take part in. Discussion: This feasibility randomised controlled trial will establish the acceptability and estimate the power of the MAP intervention to improve early word learning in children with ASD. In the longer term, this research will help us develop an app for parents or carers of children with ASD to design their own songs and implement their own individualised MAP.Trial registration: ISRCTN, ISRCTN12536062. Registered 26 June 2019, https://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN12536062