This R34 project is dedicated to customizing the “OPT-in-Early” parent training program to meet the specific needs of US Latinx families with autistic toddlers. The objective is to culturally adapt the program for Latinx parents with children aged 18 to 36 months who are either diagnosed with autism or showing strong indicators of the condition and are awaiting further diagnosis or intervention. Leveraging the expertise of the research team in parent-mediated therapy, mobile health (mHealth) interventions, and increasing Latinx access to autism-related healthcare, the project will conduct a pilot study as a precursor to a comprehensive randomized controlled trial (RCT). Dr. Magaña will play a pivotal role in culturally tailoring the program and overseeing the implementation of this vital intervention.
