The COVID-19 pandemic has obviously brought so many challenges for families of children with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Researchers at Vanderbilt University have received a small grant from the Spencer Foundation to try to address some of these challenges by learning more about the ways that families are involved in language and literacy learning for children with disabilities who have limited verbal speech, and how to support strong outcomes for children in their families. 

Families will receive up to $220 in gift cards (Amazon, Walmart, or Target) and two new children’s books for participating.

 They are actively recruiting families throughout the state of Tennessee with a child who:

• Is in Kindergarten through 4th grade in a public school for the 2020-2021 school year

• Has a significant intellectual or developmental disability (e.g., autism, intellectual disability, multiple disabilities, severe developmental delay)

• Is nonverbal or limited speech (uses single words or 1-3 word phrases, or augmentative or alternative communication such as pictures or a speech-generating device or “talker”)

Families will participate in all of the research activities remotely, in their homes and at times that are convenient to them. Participation is confidential and involves parents: completing online questionnaires, providing an electronic copy of their child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP), completing interviews with a research team member, and participating in two very brief home-based sessions through web-based videoconferencing with a researcher (about 10 min in length, parents will read and interact with their child).

To complete these activities, families will need to speak English conversationally (though they can also speak another language in the home) and have access to internet and a device, such as a phone, tablet, or computer in their home. 

Click here for a printable flyer with additional information  or follow this LINK  to let us know that you are interested in participating!

If you have any questions, you can contact Elizabeth E. Biggs, PhD at the information below. You can also share with other families if they have a child who meets this description!

Elizabeth Biggs, Ph.D.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         Assistant Professor, Department of Special Education                                                                                                                                                                                                          Vanderbilt University                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            Elizabeth.e.biggs@vanderbilt.edu                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         Phone: (615) 343-2494