NCT07500363 · University of California, Davis
Improving Caregiver Engagement in Early Interventions
What this study is about
The goal of this study is to test the effectiveness of the FANS-EI program in supporting caregiver engagement in caregiver-mediated early interventions for young children with autism. This study also examines caregiver-perceived social support and self-effectiveness and FANS-EI implementation outcomes (feasibility, acceptability, appropriateness).
View original scientific description
The goal of this study is to test the effectiveness of the FANS-EI program in supporting caregiver engagement in caregiver-mediated early interventions for young children with autism. This study also examines caregiver-perceived social support and self-efficacy and FANS-EI implementation outcomes (feasibility, acceptability, appropriateness).
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
FANS-EI
Social support related text messages delivered to supporters and caregivers; asynchronized educational materials for supporters.
BEHAVIORAL
Early Intervention
Treatment as usual provided by community-based autism early intervention agencies
Primary outcome measures
Parent Participatory Engagement Measure
Time frame: Weekly for 6 months
The 5-item Parent Participatory Engagement Measure (PPEM) examines caregiver comfort with, engagement and participation in the intervention.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Providers' eligibility criteria
- currently providing early intervention services, including a caregiver-coaching component
- having at least 1 child in the autism service classification on their caseload. Caregiver/Child Dyads eligibility criteria
- child is 12-60 months of age at the time of enrollment
- child has a diagnosis or high likelihood of autism
- a family/friend supporter of the caregiver is willing to be part of the study
- caregivers and supporters speak English
Where
- Sacramento, California
Collaborators
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jul 15, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations