A Study of Infant Siblings of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders

A joint research project between The Children's Hospital in Hamilton (Hamilton Health Sciences) and The Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto.

Background Information

Dr. Lonnie Zwaigenbaum, Dr. Susan Bryson, Dr. Wendy Roberts and Dr. Peter Szatmari are conducting a study to identify early signs of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

Most siblings of children with ASD have no difficulties in their development.   However, a small number of silbings may develop autistic traits, other developmental difficulties, or rarely, ASD itself.  By following siblings from a very early age, we will be able to identify those children who would benefit from special attention.

Research shows that early intervention leads to improved outcomes in children with ASD.   Unfortunately, delays in diagnosis prevent many children from receiving the full benefits of early intervention.  Our study is developinga tool that will help doctors and other health care providers identify signs of ASD as early as possible.  This is a collaborative project between researchers at Chedoke Hospital in Hamilton and the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto, Ontario.

Who Can Join This Study?

We are looking for families with:  Infants (birth to 12 months old) who have one or more siblings with any form of ASD.

What Will Happen During The Study?

• Children will be seen as early as six months of age, and will be followed until they are three years old.
• You will meet a child development specialist to talk about how your child is developing and whether you have any concerns you wish to discuss.
• We will use play situations and standardized developmental assessments to learn more about how your child uses toys, thinks, communicates, and relates to other people.
• If thre are any issues that require further assesment, we will help parents obtain appropriate services.
• At each visit, you will be given questionnaires to take home and fill out to help us learn more about your child's communication and personality stlye.

Will My Privacy Be Protected?      Yes!

All information that you give during the study will remain stictly private.

Will The Study Help To Cover My Travel Costs?     Yes!

Each family participating in the study will receive at least $15 per visit to help cover the costs of travelling to (or parking at) Chedoke Hospital in Hamilton or The Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto.

What Parents Are Saying About This Project

Parents who are participating in the research have had these things to say:                    

"I find that having another set of eyes watching my baby's development                       has helped me not to be as worried."                                                                           "My husband and I didn't find out until our son was three that he had PDD ... We find it rewarding to be part of a project that may help other children be identifed earlier."

How To Receive More Information and / or a Research Consent Form

You may choose to be seen in either Hamilton or Toronto                                    In Hamilton, please contact:

Beth Adams, Ph.D.
Department of Pediatrics
McMaster University
Hamilton, ON
905-521-2100 x 74939
E-mail: [email protected]

In Toronto, please contact:

Jessica Brian, Ph.D., C.Psych.
Study Co-ordinator
Autism Research Unit
The Hospital for Sick Children
Toronto, ON
416-813-8748
E-mail: [email protected]       

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