Resources and Events for Early Intervention

Study- Pittsburgh Early Autism Study (P.E.A.S.)
Funded by the National Institutes of Health and by Autism Speaks

To join us in this effort or if you have questions, please contact us by phone or by email:  1-866-647-3436 or autismrecruiter@upmc.edu

Our Main Goal:  We are studying infants who have an older sibling with an autism spectrum disorder to look for infant behaviors that may predict a later ASD diagnosis.

What we know:  Family home vidoes of children later diagnosed with ASD suggest that diagnostic signs of ASD may emerge within the first year of life.

Benefits to you:  Screens and assessments of autism symptoms between 18 and 48 months at no cost.

How you can help:  Participate with your infant in one or both of these projects.  Participants will be compensated for studies they are eligible for and participate in.

HOW BABIES DEVELOP INTELLECTUALLY
Directed by Dr. Mark S. Strauss- www.pitt.edu/~infants
Infants visit the Infant & Toddler Development Center at the University of Pittsburgh at 6, 11, 16, 24, 36, and 48 months of age for about an hour.  Babies watch pictures and movies (such as Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood) while we record how babies look.  Infants who do not have a siblng with autism are also welcome in this study.

HOW BABIES COMMUNICATE
Directed by Dr. Jana M. Iverson - www.pitt.edu/~icl
Infants are seen in your own home at a time convenient for you.  Trained staff visit your home for about an hour and observe infants during everyday activities and playtime with you monthly while babies are 5-14 months old, then again at 18, 24, and 36 months.

Assistive Technology Resource for Early Intervention Parents and Professionals, Frequently Asked Questions
Do you feel that you child may need assistive technology devices, please download and read this information to guide you in the right direction.

Model for how Early Intervention Services are Provided Resource Guide
A parent resource guide for how early intervention services should be provided.  A great resource if you are interested in learning more about Early Intervention.

A Parents Guide to the Transition Process from the Birth to three Program to Preschool
This guide gives parents information and knowledge about the transition process to the preschool program.  This will help to prepare you for your transition meeting with the preschool service coordinator.

How to Apply for Medical Assistance Guide
A wonderful resource for families who would like to apply for medical assistance due to their child's diagnosis.

updated 10/26/2008