About the Lab

The LI+TLE Lab focuses on answering questions about early language and communication development, such as:

• How does attention to social information facilitate early language in young children?
• How do children with language impairments or delay use social cues in language learning?
• How do early social impairments in children with autism spectrum disorder affect language development?
• How do children with Autistic Spectrum Disorder ask questions?

Most of our studies involve games and activities with one of our research staff, and your child may watch some videos or images on the screen of a tablet or use an eye-tracker. A typical visit to LI+TLE Lab takes about 2 hours, during which you will be with your child at all times. When you arrive, we will review all the information about the study with you and make sure that all of your questions are answered. We will give you some brief paperwork to complete, including a consent form.

Then, the study will begin, but you and your child can decide to stop participation at any time if you are uncomfortable or if your child is unhappy.  At the end of the visit, we will give you and your child a small gift to say ‘thank you’. Costs of transportation are reimbursed.