Effectiveness of Distance Educational Programs for parents of children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder: an integrative review. / Eficácia de Programas Educativos à Distância para pais de crianças com diagnóstico de Transtorno do Espectro Autista: uma revisão integrativa.

OBJECTIVE: to analyze the scientific literature on distance education programs for parents/caregivers in the development of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). RESEARCH METHOD: the PICO strategy was used to identify the research problem. The databases Medline, ERIC, LILACs, EMBASE, CINAHL, Web of Science, and Scopus were searched using specific descriptors and free terms. There were no restrictions on time or language. Articles on online educational programs for parents of children with ASD were selected, focusing on the impact of these programs on the development of children up to six years old. SELECTION CRITERIA: studies were selected based on standard eligibility criteria, including full-text reading after initial screening using the RAYYAN software. Primary studies such as clinical trials and systematic reviews evaluating distance education programs for parents of children with ASD were included. DATA ANALYSIS: the RAYYAN software was used for initial study selection. Articles were hierarchically organized based on title and abstract, followed by full-text reading to apply eligibility criteria. RESULTS: the initial search yielded 1019 articles, of which 192 were identified as duplicates. After initial screening and full-text reading, 37 articles were analyzed, of which six were deemed eligible to answer the research question. Among the eligible studies, one was a systematic review and five were experimental studies. Experimental studies highlighted positive impacts on areas such as daily routines, behavioral flexibility, and communication. The systematic review provided preliminary evidence that distance education programs for parents can enhance knowledge about ASD, increase adherence to interventions, and foster the development of social and communication skills in children. CONCLUSION: the findings suggest that remote parent guidance programs may effectively improve knowledge about ASD, increase parent adherence to interventions, and promote the development of social and communication skills in children with ASD.

OBJETIVO: analisar a produção científica sobre programas educativos à distância para pais/responsáveis no desenvolvimento de crianças com Transtorno do Espectro Autista (TEA). ESTRATÉGIA DE PESQUISA: utilizou-se a estratégia PICO para identificar o problema de pesquisa. Foram consultadas as bases de dados Medline, ERIC, LILACs, EMBASE, CINAHL, Web of Science e Scopus utilizando descritores e termos livres específicos. não houve restrição de tempo ou idioma. Foram selecionados artigos sobre programas educativos online destinados a pais de crianças com TEA, com foco no impacto desses programas no desenvolvimento de crianças de até seis anos. CRITÉRIOS DE SELEçÃO: os estudos foram selecionados com base em critérios de elegibilidade padrões, incluindo a leitura completa dos artigos após a triagem inicial realizada com o software RAYYAN. Foram incluídos estudos primários, como ensaios clínicos e revisões sistemáticas que avaliaram programas educativos à distância para pais de crianças com TEA. ANÁLISE DOS DADOS: utilizou-se o software RAYYAN para a seleção inicial dos estudos. Os artigos foram organizados hierarquicamente com base no título e resumo, seguido pela leitura integral para aplicação dos critérios de elegibilidade. RESULTADOS: a busca inicial resultou em 1019 artigos, dos quais 192 foram identificados como duplicados. Após a seleção inicial e a leitura completa, 37 artigos foram analisados, dos quais seis foram considerados elegíveis para responder à pergunta de pesquisa. Entre os estudos elegíveis, um era uma revisão sistemática e cinco eram estudos experimentais. Os estudos experimentais destacaram impactos positivos em áreas como rotinas diárias, flexibilidade comportamental e comunicação. A revisão sistemática indicou evidências preliminares de que os programas educativos à distância para pais podem melhorar o conhecimento sobre TEA, aumentar a adesão às intervenções e promover o desenvolvimento de habilidades sociais e de comunicação nas crianças. CONCLUSÃO: os resultados sugerem que programas remotos de orientação para pais podem ser eficazes para melhorar o conhecimento sobre TEA, aumentar a adesão dos pais às intervenções e promover o desenvolvimento de habilidades sociais e de comunicação em crianças com TEA.

Intervenções de esportes modificados para crianças e adolescentes com deficiência: Uma revisão de escopo.

As intervenções de esportes modificados visam o desempenho de habilidades relacionadas ao esporte e visam alcançar a participação em atividades físicas e funções corporais Essas intervenções incluíram treinamento de habilidades motoras relacionadas ao esporte em grupo e introdução ao esporte em ambientes do mundo real Eles são oferecidos principalmente para crianças ambulantes com transtorno do espectro do autismo e paralisia cerebral A maioria dos estudos de intervenção de esportes modificados apresentou nível de evidência moderado Resumo gráfico: Intervenções de esportes modificados para crianças e adolescentes com deficiência: Uma revisão de escopo. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/dmcn.15952.

OBJETIVO: Estabelecer o escopo da literatura sobre intervenção de esportes modificados para crianças e adolescentes com deficiência. MÉTODOS: Para esta revisão de escopo, os artigos foram selecionados e as características dos estudos foram extraídas. As intervenções de esportes modificados foram descritas quanto à sua estrutura, utilizando os itens do Template for Intervention Description and Replication (TIDieR). Os componentes do tratamento foram descritos usando a linguagem do Sistema de Especificação de Tratamento de Reabilitação. Os resultados foram analisados e validados por um grupo de profissionais, utilizando a estratégia de Envolvimento do Público e do Paciente. RESULTADOS: Doze estudos foram elegíveis para inclusão, investigando intervenções para crianças com transtorno do espectro do autismo, paralisia cerebral e outras condições. A maioria dos estudos apresentou nível de evidência moderado. Os ingredientes ativos foram o treino motor repetido relacionado com o esporte e a introdução à prática esportiva através do mecanismo de "aprendizagem pela ação". O alvo da intervenção foi a capacidade de execução das habilidades motoras grossas, e os objetivos da intervenção (resultados indiretos) foram a participação em atividades físicas e diferentes funções corporais. INTERPRETAÇÃO: As principais características e estrutura da intervenção, lacunas de pesquisa e um passo­a­passo para implementação clínica foram apresentados para melhorar sua compreensão. São necessárias investigações futuras sobre a eficácia das intervenções de esportes modificados com estudos de melhor qualidade, incluindo resultados de participação, e estudos com crianças não deambulantes. O QUE ESTE ARTIGO ACRESCENTA: As intervenções de esportes modificados visam o desempenho de habilidades relacionadas ao esporte e visam alcançar a participação em atividades físicas e funções corporais Essas intervenções incluíram treinamento de habilidades motoras relacionadas ao esporte em grupo e introdução ao esporte em ambientes do mundo real Eles são oferecidos principalmente para crianças ambulantes com transtorno do espectro do autismo e paralisia cerebral A maioria dos estudos de intervenção de esportes modificados apresentou nível de evidência moderado.

Modified sports interventions for children and adolescents with disabilities: A scoping review.

AIM: To establish the scope of the literature on modified sports interventions for children and adolescents with disabilities. METHOD: For this scoping review, articles were screened and the characteristics of studies were extracted. The modified sports interventions were described in terms of their structure, using the items of the Template for Intervention Description and Replication. Components of intervention treatment were described by using the language of the Rehabilitation Treatment Specification System. Results were analysed and validated by a group of professionals, using the Public and Patient Involvement strategy. RESULTS: Twelve studies were eligible for inclusion, investigating interventions for children with autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, and other conditions. Most studies presented a moderate level of evidence. Active ingredients were repeated sports-related motor training and introduction to the sport through a 'learning by action' mechanism. The intervention target was gross motor skills performance, and intervention aims (indirect outcomes) were physical activity participation and different body functions. INTERPRETATION: The inclusion of stakeholders in this review helped to validate our findings about the characteristics and structure of modified sports interventions, to identify research gaps, and to provide a step process for clinical implementation. Future investigations are warranted of the effectiveness of modified sports investigations with better quality studies, including participation outcomes and studies with non-ambulant children. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS: Modified sports interventions target sport-related skills performance and aim to achieve physical activity participation and body functions. These interventions included group-based, sports-related motor skills training and introduction to sports in real-world environments. They are offered mostly for ambulant children with autism spectrum disorder and cerebral palsy. Most studies of modified sports interventions presented moderate level of evidence.

Characteristics of children with autism spectrum disorder in pediatric rehabilitation at a referral hospital in Peru. / Características de niños con trastorno del espectro autista en rehabilitación pediátrica de un hospital de referencia en Perú.

OBJECTIVE.: Motivation for the study. Despite the prevalence of ASD, research in the field of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation is scarce in Peru. Main findings. Of 120 children with a previous diagnosis of ASD, only 9.8% received inclusive education. The median age at diagnosis was 3.83 years. We also found that 78.4% had no disability certificate and 77.5% had incomplete psychological evaluation. The median time since the last physical, occupational, and speech therapy sessions was 3 months, 8 months, and 3.5 months, respectively. Implications. These findings highlight the need to enhance early diagnosis, inclusive education, and evaluation and subsequent certification of disability, as well as to establish more timely interventions. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is characterized by developmental disorders, difficulties in social interaction and communication, and restrictive and repetitive patterns of behavior. Despite its high prevalence, few studies have been conducted in rehabilitation settings. This study aimed to describe the characteristics of children with ASD from the Pediatric Rehabilitation Service of the Rebagliati Hospital (SRP-HNERM). MATERIALS AND METHODS.: Cross-sectional descriptive study. We reviewed the medical records of children under 14 years of age previously diagnosed with ASD from the SRP-HNERM during 2022. RESULTS.: A total of 120 children with ASD were evaluated. The median age was 5 years. Most received regular education, but it was inclusive only for 9.8%. The mean age at diagnosis was 3.83 years. We found that 78.4% had no disability certificate and 77.5% of the participants had incomplete psychological evaluation. The median time since the last physical, occupational and speech therapy sessions was 3, 8 and 3.5 months respectively. CONCLUSION.: The mean age at diagnosis of ASD was older than three years, and more than 75% of the patients had neither a disability certificate nor a complete psychological evaluation. The median time since the last rehabilitation therapy sessions was three months or more. Our findings highlight the need to improve early diagnosis, inclusive education and evaluation and subsequent certification of disability, as well as to establish timely interventions.

OBJETIVO.: Motivación para realizar el estudio. A pesar de la prevalencia del trastorno del espectro autista (TEA), la investigación en el campo de la Medicina Física y Rehabilitación es escasa en Perú. Principales hallazgos. De 120 niños con diagnóstico previo de TEA evaluados, solo el 9,8% recibió educación inclusiva. La media de edad de diagnóstico fue de 3,83 años. El 78,4% no tenía certificado de discapacidad y el 77,5% tenía evaluación psicológica incompleta. La mediana del tiempo transcurrido desde las últimas sesiones de terapia física, ocupacional y de lenguaje fue de 3 meses, 8 meses y 3,5 meses, respectivamente. Implicancias. Estos hallazgos resaltan la necesidad de potenciar el diagnóstico temprano, la educación inclusiva y la evaluación y posterior certificación de la discapacidad, así como de establecer intervenciones más oportunas. El trastorno del espectro autista (TEA) se caracteriza por alteraciones en el desarrollo, dificultades de interacción social y comunicación, y patrones restrictivos y repetitivos de conducta. A pesar de su alta prevalencia, pocos estudios se han realizado en ambientes de rehabilitación. El objetivo del estudio fue describir las características de los niños con TEA atendidos en el Servicio de Rehabilitación Pediátrica del Hospital Rebagliati (SRP-HNERM). MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS.: Estudio descriptivo transversal. Se revisaron las historias clínicas de niños menores de 14 años con diagnóstico previo de TEA atendidos en el SRP-HNERM durante el 2022. RESULTADOS.: Se evaluaron a 120 niños con TEA. La mediana de edad fue de cinco años. La mayoría recibía educación regular, pero solo para el 9,8% fue inclusiva. La media de edad de diagnóstico fue de 3,83 años. El 78,4% no tenía certificado de discapacidad y el 77,5% tenía evaluación psicológica incompleta. La mediana del tiempo transcurrido desde las últimas sesiones de terapia física, ocupacional y de lenguaje fue de 3, 8 y 3,5 meses respectivamente. CONCLUSIÓN.: La media de edad de diagnóstico de TEA fue mayor de tres años y más del 75% de los pacientes no contaban con un certificado de discapacidad ni con una evaluación psicológica completa. La mediana del tiempo desde las últimas sesiones de terapias de rehabilitación fue de tres meses o más. Estos hallazgos resaltan la necesidad de potenciar el diagnóstico temprano, la educación inclusiva y la evaluación y posterior certificación de la discapacidad, así como de establecer intervenciones más oportunas.

Desarrollo de la imaginación narrativa creadora en un niño con trastorno del espectro autista / Development of creative narrative imagination in a child with autism spectrum disorder

La imaginación narrativa creadora es una formación psicológica de la niñez que posibilita que los niños vean las cosas desde el punto de vista del otro. En el Trastorno del Espectro Autista (TEA) esta formación psicológica tiene comprometido su desarrollo. El objetivo de este artículo es explicar de qué manera se desarrolla la imaginación narrativa creadora en un niño con TEA. Esta investigación es de diseño pre-test ­ post-test. La intervención se fundamentó en el uso de las actividades de lectura compartida de literatura infantil y juego narrativo a partir de una interacción comunicativa intencionada con una duración de tres años. Los resultados mostraron que las actividades de lectura compartida de literatura infantil y juego narrativo posibilitaron que el niño con TEA creara vínculos afectivos y que encontrara su propia voz para expresar su mundo interior, usando el lenguaje en un profundo dinamismo de interacciones comunicativas y sociales (utilizando para ello, el lenguaje verbal, no verbal y gestual, así como los silencios). Por consiguiente, tales actividades permitieron el desarrollo de la imaginación narrativa creadora, lo que contribuye a la prevención de dificultades de salud mental en el niño con TEA.

The creative narrative imagination is a psychological formation of childhood that enables children to see things from the other's point of view. In Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) this psychological training has its development compromised. The purpose of this article is to explain how creative narrative imagination develops in a child with Autism Spectrum Disorder. This research is of pre-test - posttest design. The intervention used shared reading activities of children's literature and narrative play based on an intentional interaction for three years. The results show that these activities enable the child with ASD to create emotional bonds and to find his or her voice to express his or her inner world using language. Therefore, they allow the full development of creative narrative imagination, which contributes to the prevention of mental health difficulties in children with ASD.

Reducción de las conductas autolesivas y autoestimulatorias disfuncionales en los trastornos del espectro del autismo a través de la terapia ocupacional / Reduction of dysfunctional self-injurious and self-stimulatory behaviors in autism disorders spectrum through occupational therapy

Las conductas auto estimulatorias y auto lesivas son muy frecuentes en los trastornos del neurodesarrollo, siendo una fuente de ansiedad y sufrimiento importante tanto para las personas que las presentan como para sus familias. En ocasiones estas conductas son tan intensas y frecuentes que llegan a ser un peligro para la salud del sujeto. Se realiza una revisión bibliográfica sobre las diferentes vías de atención de estas conductas desarrolladas hasta el momento, y se expone la metodología aplicada en nuestra clínica, presentando datos recopilados sobre el efecto de la terapia sobre las conductas auto lesivas y auto estimulatorias en 20 casos, como punto de partida para próximas investigaciones. Se destaca el modelo de integración sensorial que complementa el tratamiento farmacológico y el cognitivo conductual, ya que considera relevante las necesidades sensoriales y entrena la capacidad de auto regulación funcional.

Self-stimulatory and self-injurious behaviors are very frequent in neurodevelopmental disorders, being a source of anxiety and suffering for persons who have that behavior and their families. Sometimes these behaviors are so intense and frequent that it becomes a self-integrity risk. A bibliographic review was conducted on the different approaches that have been developed until today; in addition, this article explains the methodology applied in our clinic, with a data collection on the effect of therapy on self-injurious and self-stimulatory behaviors in 20 cases, as a starting point for future research. The sensory integration model that complements pharmacological and behavioral cognitive treatment is highlighted, since it considers sensory needs relevant and trains the capacity for functional self-regulation.

Caregivers' perception of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder regarding to the communicative profile of their children after a communicative orientation program. / Percepção de cuidadores de crianças com Transtorno do Espectro do Autismo quanto ao perfil comunicativo de seus filhos após um programa de orientação fonoaudiológica.

PURPOSE: To analyze the perception of caregivers of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder regarding the functional profile of their children's communication in three moments, before and after the guidelines. METHODS: Caregivers of 62 children diagnosed with ASD (AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER) participated in this study, divided into three groups of interventions. All interventions included a program with five pre-set monthly orientation sessions to provide information on the development of communication and encourage practical communication activities in daily life. In G1 (group 1), the caregivers received the group orientation program, and the children received individual speech therapy. In G2 (group 2), caregivers received the same program orientations but individually, and their children received different treatment. G3 (group 3), composed of caregivers of children waiting for speech-language pathology on the waiting list, received group guidance. All caregivers answered the Functional Communication Checklist (PFC-C) in three moments: baseline, five and eight months. RESULTS: In the PFC-C the parents reported an increase in the occurrence of gestural, vocal and verbal means in all groups, to express interpersonal communicative functions, except in G2. In non-interpersonal communicative functions, there was a decrease in the occurrence of the gestural communicative environment, an increase in the verbal climate, with no statistical difference between the groups. As for the vocal climate, there was no difference over time. CONCLUSION: Communication guidelines for caregivers of children with ASD (AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER) (Autism Spectrum Disorder) contributed to the understanding of the communicative process in different situations, by detecting differences in their perception of the communication functionality of their children.

OBJETIVO: Analisar a percepção de cuidadores de crianças com Transtorno do Espectro do Autismo quanto ao perfil funcional da comunicação de seus filhos em três momentos, antes e após as orientações. MÉTODO: Cuidadores de 62 crianças com diagnóstico de TEA participaram deste estudo, divididos em três grupos de intervenções. Todas as intervenções incluíram um programa com cinco sessões de orientação mensais pré-estabelecidas para fornecer informações sobre o desenvolvimento da comunicação e incentivar atividades práticas de comunicação na vida diária. No G1, os cuidadores receberam o programa de orientação em grupo e as crianças receberam terapia fonoaudiológica individual. No G2, os cuidadores receberam as mesmas orientações do programa, mas individualmente, e seus filhos receberam terapia individual. O G3, composto por cuidadores de crianças que aguardavam atendimento fonoaudiológico em lista de espera, recebeu orientação em grupo. Todos os cuidadores responderam ao Perfil de Comunicação Funcional-Checklist (PFC-C) em três momentos: marco zero, cinco e oito meses. RESULTADOS: No PFC-C os pais relataram aumento na ocorrência dos meios gestual, vocal e verbal em todos os grupos, para expressar as funções comunicativas interpessoais, exceto no G2. Nas funções comunicativas não interpessoais, houve diminuição da ocorrência do meio comunicativo gestual, aumento do meio verbal, sem diferença estatística entre os grupos. Quanto ao meio vocal, não houve diferença ao longo do tempo. CONCLUSÃO: As orientações de comunicação para cuidadores de crianças com TEA contribuíram para a compreensão do processo comunicativo em diferentes situações, por meio da detecção de diferenças em sua percepção quanto à funcionalidade da comunicação de seus filhos.

[Reduction of dysfunctional self-injurious and self-stimulatory behaviors in autism disorders spectrum through occupational therapy]. / Reducción de las conductas autolesivas y autoestimulatorias disfuncionales en los trastornos del espectro del autismo a través de la terapia ocupacional.

Self-stimulatory and self-injurious behaviors are very frequent in neurodevelopmental disorders, being a source of anxiety and suffering for persons who have that behavior and their families. Sometimes these behaviors are so intense and frequent that it becomes a selfintegrity risk. A bibliographic review was conducted on the different approaches that have been developed until today; in addition, this article explains the methodology applied in our clinic, with a data collection on the effect of therapy on self-injurious and self-stimulatory behaviors in 20 cases, as a starting point for future research. The sensory integration model that complements pharmacological and behavioral cognitive treatment is highlighted, since it considers sensory needs relevant and trains the capacity for functional self-regulation.

Las conductas auto estimulatorias y auto lesivas son muy frecuentes en los trastornos del neurodesarrollo, siendo una fuente de ansiedad y sufrimiento importante tanto para las personas que las presentan como para sus familias. En ocasiones estas conductas son tan intensas y frecuentes que llegan a ser un peligro para la salud del sujeto. Se realiza una revisión bibliográfica sobre las diferentes vías de atención de estas conductas desarrolladas hasta el momento, y se expone la metodología aplicada en nuestra clínica, presentando datos recopilados sobre el efecto de la terapia sobre las conductas auto lesivas y auto estimulatorias en 20 casos, como punto de partida para próximas investigaciones. Se destaca el modelo de integración sensorial que complementa el tratamiento farmacológico y el cognitivo conductual, ya que considera relevante las necesidades sensoriales y entrena la capacidad de auto regulación funcional.

Percepção de cuidadores de crianças com Transtorno do Espectro do Autismo quanto ao perfil comunicativo de seus filhos após um programa de orientação fonoaudiológica / Caregivers' perception of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder regarding to the communicative profile of their children after a communicative orientation program

RESUMO Objetivo Analisar a percepção de cuidadores de crianças com Transtorno do Espectro do Autismo quanto ao perfil funcional da comunicação de seus filhos em três momentos, antes e após as orientações. Método Cuidadores de 62 crianças com diagnóstico de TEA participaram deste estudo, divididos em três grupos de intervenções. Todas as intervenções incluíram um programa com cinco sessões de orientação mensais pré-estabelecidas para fornecer informações sobre o desenvolvimento da comunicação e incentivar atividades práticas de comunicação na vida diária. No G1, os cuidadores receberam o programa de orientação em grupo e as crianças receberam terapia fonoaudiológica individual. No G2, os cuidadores receberam as mesmas orientações do programa, mas individualmente, e seus filhos receberam terapia individual. O G3, composto por cuidadores de crianças que aguardavam atendimento fonoaudiológico em lista de espera, recebeu orientação em grupo. Todos os cuidadores responderam ao Perfil de Comunicação Funcional-Checklist (PFC-C) em três momentos: marco zero, cinco e oito meses. Resultados No PFC-C os pais relataram aumento na ocorrência dos meios gestual, vocal e verbal em todos os grupos, para expressar as funções comunicativas interpessoais, exceto no G2. Nas funções comunicativas não interpessoais, houve diminuição da ocorrência do meio comunicativo gestual, aumento do meio verbal, sem diferença estatística entre os grupos. Quanto ao meio vocal, não houve diferença ao longo do tempo. Conclusão As orientações de comunicação para cuidadores de crianças com TEA contribuíram para a compreensão do processo comunicativo em diferentes situações, por meio da detecção de diferenças em sua percepção quanto à funcionalidade da comunicação de seus filhos.

ABSTRACT Purpose To analyze the perception of caregivers of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder regarding the functional profile of their children's communication in three moments, before and after the guidelines. Methods Caregivers of 62 children diagnosed with ASD (AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER) participated in this study, divided into three groups of interventions. All interventions included a program with five pre-set monthly orientation sessions to provide information on the development of communication and encourage practical communication activities in daily life. In G1 (group 1), the caregivers received the group orientation program, and the children received individual speech therapy. In G2 (group 2), caregivers received the same program orientations but individually, and their children received different treatment. G3 (group 3), composed of caregivers of children waiting for speech-language pathology on the waiting list, received group guidance. All caregivers answered the Functional Communication Checklist (PFC-C) in three moments: baseline, five and eight months. Results In the PFC-C the parents reported an increase in the occurrence of gestural, vocal and verbal means in all groups, to express interpersonal communicative functions, except in G2. In non-interpersonal communicative functions, there was a decrease in the occurrence of the gestural communicative environment, an increase in the verbal climate, with no statistical difference between the groups. As for the vocal climate, there was no difference over time. Conclusion Communication guidelines for caregivers of children with ASD (AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER) (Autism Spectrum Disorder) contributed to the understanding of the communicative process in different situations, by detecting differences in their perception of the communication functionality of their children.

Instruments for augmentative and alternative communication for children with autism spectrum disorder: a systematic review.

New technologies designed to improve the communication of autistic children can also help to promote interaction processes and cognitive and social development. The aim of this study was to analyze the instruments used to improve the communication skills of children with autism spectrum disorder. We searched the PubMed and Web of Science databases using the descriptors "autism", "Asperger", "education", "children" and "assistive technology" and selected articles that met the following inclusion criteria: (i) original research; (ii) written in English; (iii) based on participants with a primary diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder; and (iv) tested an instrument designed to promote communication in children with autism spectrum disorder. Our search retrieved 811 articles, of which 34 met the inclusion criteria. Data on 26 instruments were extracted, and the measurement properties of the instruments were combined with information about their outcomes and presentation. The most commonly used interventions were the Treatment and Education of Autistic and Related Communication Handicapped Children program and the Picture Exchange Communication System. The Treatment and Education of Autistic and Related Communication Handicapped Children program was shown to produce improvements in the communication skills, socialization and self-care skills of children with autism spectrum disorder. The Picture Exchange Communication System produced inconsistent results. The results of the identified studies confirm the significant importance of these instruments in improving the communicative process of autistic children.

Relations between Touch Target Size and Drag Distance in Mobile Applications for Users with Autism Spectrum Disorders.

In recent years, the development of mobile applications for people within the autism spectrum has proliferated to help enhance skills that could be diminished in users with this condition. However, the usability of these applications does not appear to be the focus of development because users with autism can have difficulty with fine motor skills. This article focuses on evaluating the optimal drag distance and the sizes of the interaction elements for users with Autism Spectrum Disorder. To accomplish this goal, a case study was conducted that involved 20 users with Autism Spectrum Disorder and 30 users with typical development, using a prototype generated and two applications for commercial use on 7-in. tablets. For both developed applications, a slight variation can be observed between the different groups of participants. In the interaction with Proyect@ Habilidades, the application has pictograms of 65 pixels and it has a maximum trailing distance of 340 pixels. Moreover, in Proyect@ Retratos, where there is a minimum deviation between users with levels of autism 1 and 2, it also has pictograms of 65 pixels but with a drag distance of 110 pixels. For this reason, according to the results, we suggest that in order to obtain better results in the interaction with applications aimed at users diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders, the applications should have pictograms of a range of 65 pixels with a drag interaction between 110 and 340 pixels. Considering in context a 7-in. tablet with a resolution of 1280 × 800 pixels.

Instruments for augmentative and alternative communication for children with autism spectrum disorder: a systematic review

New technologies designed to improve the communication of autistic children can also help to promote interaction processes and cognitive and social development. The aim of this study was to analyze the instruments used to improve the communication skills of children with autism spectrum disorder. We searched the PubMed and Web of Science databases using the descriptors "autism", "Asperger", "education", "children" and "assistive technology" and selected articles that met the following inclusion criteria: (i) original research; (ii) written in English; (iii) based on participants with a primary diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder; and (iv) tested an instrument designed to promote communication in children with autism spectrum disorder. Our search retrieved 811 articles, of which 34 met the inclusion criteria. Data on 26 instruments were extracted, and the measurement properties of the instruments were combined with information about their outcomes and presentation. The most commonly used interventions were the Treatment and Education of Autistic and Related Communication Handicapped Children program and the Picture Exchange Communication System. The Treatment and Education of Autistic and Related Communication Handicapped Children program was shown to produce improvements in the communication skills, socialization and self-care skills of children with autism spectrum disorder. The Picture Exchange Communication System produced inconsistent results. The results of the identified studies confirm the significant importance of these instruments in improving the communicative process of autistic children.

What does the literature say about using robots on children with disabilities?

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to examine the extent and type of robots used for the rehabilitation and education of children and young people with CP and ASD and the associated outcomes. METHODS: The scholarly literature was systematically searched and analyzed. Articles were included if they reported the results of robots used or intended to be used for the rehabilitation and education of children and young people with CP and ASD during play and educative and social interaction activities. RESULTS: We found 15 robotic systems reported in 34 studies that provided a low level of evidence. The outcomes were mainly for children with ASD interaction and who had a reduction in autistic behaviour, and for CP cognitive development, learning, and play. CONCLUSION: More research is needed in this area using designs that provide higher validity. A centred design approach is needed for developing new low-cost robots for this population. Implications for rehabilitation In spite of the potential of robots to promote development in children with ASD and CP, the limited available evidence requires researchers to conduct studies with higher validity. The low level of evidence plus the need for specialized technical support should be considered critical factors before making the decision to purchase robots for use in treatment for children with CP and ASD. A user-entered design approach would increase the chances of success for robots to improve functional, learning, and educative outcomes in children with ASD and CP. We recommend that developers use this approach. The participation of interdisciplinary teams in the design, development, and implementation of new robotic systems is of extra value. We recommend the design and development of low-cost robotic systems to make robots more affordable.

Remote follow-up to speech-language intervention for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD): parents' feedback regarding structured activities.

PURPOSE: This paper aims to present the first descriptions of experiences of parents and caretakers of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) enrolled as mediators in a structured program of speech-language intervention with remote follow-up. METHODS: Research with focus on speech-language intervention for children with ASD was carried out with remote follow-up. Forty parents were instructed to perform daily activities focused on communication and interaction with their children, at home, for a period of six weeks. Parents and caretakers were questioned about the experience and by means of a structured questionnaire. RESULTS: Only 40% of the parents/caretakers conducted the activities proposed every day. Difficulties were reported by 60% of the parents/caretakers. Behavioral problems were also reported as reasons for the difficulties to conduct the activities proposed. CONCLUSION: the importance of parents who provide detailed information about the child's development, discuss doubts and exchange experiences for the development of intervention programs that include families.

Remote follow-up to speech-language intervention for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD): parents' feedback regarding structured activities

ABSTRACT Purpose This paper aims to present the first descriptions of experiences of parents and caretakers of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) enrolled as mediators in a structured program of speech-language intervention with remote follow-up. Methods Research with focus on speech-language intervention for children with ASD was carried out with remote follow-up. Forty parents were instructed to perform daily activities focused on communication and interaction with their children, at home, for a period of six weeks. Parents and caretakers were questioned about the experience and by means of a structured questionnaire. Results Only 40% of the parents/caretakers conducted the activities proposed every day. Difficulties were reported by 60% of the parents/caretakers. Behavioral problems were also reported as reasons for the difficulties to conduct the activities proposed. Conclusion the importance of parents who provide detailed information about the child's development, discuss doubts and exchange experiences for the development of intervention programs that include families.

The provision of speech-language therapy in services destined to individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). / A oferta da terapia fonoaudiológica em locais de assistência a indivíduos com Transtornos do Espectro do Autista (TEA).

The increased prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) worldwide has been a major public health concern; therefore, discussion about the services and therapies required has become important. This study aimed to characterize the provision of speech-language therapy services in the metropolitan area of Sao Paulo. To this end, a questionnaire with 23 questions was developed based on the Balanced Scorecard methodology. This questionnaire was applied to 854 individuals assisted in 25 ASD services. The results show that only 64% of the ASD services offer speech-language therapy and that the number of individuals assisted is below the expected. Therefore, there is a necessity for better management in the speech-language therapy services offered to the ASD population.

A oferta da terapia fonoaudiológica em locais de assistência a indivíduos com Transtornos do Espectro do Autista (TEA) / The provision of speech-language therapy in services destined to individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

RESUMO Os Transtornos do Espectro Autista (TEA) têm sido grande preocupação em saúde pública devido ao aumento de sua prevalência e isto traz à tona, a discussão sobre a assistência prestada assim como dos acompanhamentos terapêuticos necessários. Dentre estes acompanhamentos, se destaca a terapia fonoaudiológica. Este estudo buscou caracterizar a oferta desse serviço nos diversos locais de assistência a essa população no município de São Paulo e para isso, elaborou-se um questionário. Participaram do estudo 25 locais com um total de 854 indivíduos com TEA assistidos. Observou-se que apenas 64% dos locais oferecem o acompanhamento fonoaudiológico e que o número dos indivíduos com indicação para esse acompanhamento está aquém do esperado. Conclui-se que há necessidade de gerenciamento no serviço fonoaudiológico oferecido a esta população.

ABSTRACT The increased prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) worldwide has been a major public health concern; therefore, discussion about the services and therapies required has become important. This study aimed to characterize the provision of speech-language therapy services in the metropolitan area of Sao Paulo. To this end, a questionnaire with 23 questions was developed based on the Balanced Scorecard methodology. This questionnaire was applied to 854 individuals assisted in 25 ASD services. The results show that only 64% of the ASD services offer speech-language therapy and that the number of individuals assisted is below the expected. Therefore, there is a necessity for better management in the speech-language therapy services offered to the ASD population.

Interactive computer training to teach discrete-trial instruction to undergraduates and special educators in Brazil: A replication and extension.

Discrete-trial instruction (DTI) is a behavioral method of teaching young children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) that has received a significant amount of research support. Because of a lack of qualified trainers in many areas of the world, researchers have recently begun to investigate alternative methods of training professionals to implement behavioral teaching procedures. One promising training method is interactive computer training, in which slides with recorded narration, video modeling, and embedded evaluation of content knowledge are used to teach a skill. In the present study, the effectiveness of interactive computer training developed by Pollard, Higbee, Akers, and Brodhead (2014), translated into Brazilian Portuguese, was evaluated with 4 university students (Study 1) and 4 special education teachers (Study 2). We evaluated the effectiveness of training on DTI skills during role-plays with research assistants (Study 1) and during DTI sessions with young children with ASD (Studies 1 and 2) using a multiple baseline design. All participants acquired DTI skills after interactive computer training, although 5 of 8 participants required some form of feedback to reach proficiency. Responding generalized to untaught teaching programs for all participants. We evaluated maintenance with the teachers in Study 2, and DTI skills were maintained with 3 of 4 participants.