Measuring expressive language growth in young children with autism spectrum disorders

This study explored the use of the Picture Naming Individual Growth and Development Indicator (Picture Naming IGDI; Early Childhood Research Institute on Measuring Growth and Development [ECRI-MGD], 1998) with 11 preschoolers who have autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Children completed the Picture Naming IGDI on 7 occasions in 12 weeks. Results indicated Picture Naming was both a valid and reliable measure of language skills for young children with ASD. Hierarchical linear modeling revealed Picture Naming was sensitive to growth for children with ASD between 39 and 69 months old. A discussion of future research and application of the Picture Naming IGDI, as well as implications for practice, concludes the article.