Semantic Support for Language Development in Late-Talking Toddlers
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores how late-talking toddlers learn new words by teaching words from familiar or less familiar categories. The goal is to determine if children learn better from categories they already know, such as animals or body parts, compared to those they don't know well. The treatment, called VAULT Phase 5, involves a word-learning program designed to boost vocabulary. Children who speak English as their first language, have normal hearing, and struggle with verbal expression might be suitable candidates.
As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to understanding language development in toddlers.
Do I need to stop my child's current medications for this trial?
The trial information does not specify whether your child needs to stop taking current medications.
What prior data suggests that the VAULT word learning treatment is safe for late-talking toddlers?
Research has shown that the VAULT Phase 5 treatment is generally easy for children to handle. In a previous study, caregivers delivered the treatment via telehealth, and no major side effects occurred. This suggests the treatment is safe for toddlers who are late in starting to talk. The VAULT treatment helps children understand word meanings and their relationships, further supporting its safety and suitability for young children. Overall, past experiences with the VAULT approach indicate it is a safe and manageable option for aiding language development.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about this trial because it explores innovative ways to boost language development in late-talking toddlers. Unlike traditional speech therapy that often uses a broad approach, this trial specifically focuses on teaching toddlers new words from semantic categories they are either familiar with or less familiar with, such as animals or body parts. By tailoring word learning to a child's current understanding, the trial could uncover more effective strategies for expanding vocabulary. This targeted method might reveal how familiarity with certain categories can accelerate language acquisition, potentially leading to more personalized and effective language intervention strategies for toddlers.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for language development in late-talking toddlers?
Research has shown that the Vocabulary Acquisition and Usage for Late Talkers (VAULT) treatment can help late-talking toddlers improve their spoken vocabulary. Studies have found that this treatment aids children in learning new words more easily, enhancing their overall language skills. For example, one study found that children in the VAULT program experienced a noticeable increase in the number of words they could say. In this trial, participants will be divided into two groups: one focusing on learning Familiar Words from categories they already understand, and another focusing on Less-Familiar Words from categories they know little about. These findings suggest that VAULT could be a promising way to help toddlers learn words, especially when the words are from familiar categories like animals or body parts.56789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Mary Alt, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of Arizona
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for late-talking toddlers aged 2-3 who speak English natively, have normal hearing, and score below the 10th percentile on expressive language scales. It's not suitable for children outside this age range or with different linguistic and auditory profiles.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Children receive the Vocabulary Acquisition and Usage for Late Talkers (VAULT) word learning treatment
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for retention and effectiveness of word learning after treatment
Extended Follow-up
Participants are monitored for long-term word learning outcomes
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- VAULT Phase 5
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Arizona
Lead Sponsor
National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD)
Collaborator