Evaluating a Spanish-language Executive Functioning Intervention for Children With Autism and/or ADHD and Their Families
University of Colorado, Denver
Summary
The goal of this clinical trial is to learn whether the Spanish-language version of Unstuck and On Target (SL-Unstuck), an executive functioning (EF) intervention, is feasible, acceptable, and effective for Spanish-speaking caregivers and their neurodivergent children (ages 8-11) in the U.S.. The main questions it aims to answer are: * Is SL-Unstuck acceptable to Spanish-speaking caregivers and children? * Does SL-Unstuck improve child EF, caregiver EF knowledge, and caregiver strain? Researchers will compare families randomly assigned to immediate SL-Unstuck versus waitlist control to see if participating in the intervention improves EF and family outcomes. Participants will: * Attend 8 weekly SL-Unstuck sessions at a clinic (parallel child and caregiver groups) * Complete pre- and post-intervention assessments on child EF, caregiver strain, and satisfaction * Participate in a focus group to share feedback on the intervention
Eligibility
- Age range
- 8–11 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- No
Inclusion Criteria: * Child is 8-11 years old. * Child meets DSM-5 criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder and/or ADHD * Child has verbal skills at a 7-year-old level or greater (as measured by WASI Vocabulary and Similarities subtests) * Caregiver endorses at least one of the following executive functioning problems: * Difficulty accepting feedback or criticism. * Difficulty handling frustration. * Difficulty starting non-preferred activities. * Frequent meltdowns. * Not stopping a behavior after being told to stop. * Shutting down in the face of a challenge. * Caregiver is at least 18 years o…
Interventions
- BehavioralUnstuck and On Target
Children will receive the Unstuck and On Target (Unstuck) curriculum, a manualized cognitive-behavioral intervention that teaches executive functioning (EF) skills such as flexibility, emotional regulation, and goal-setting. Caregivers will attend concurrent Spanish-language sessions focused on understanding EF challenges and learning strategies to support their child's skills at home. Weekly home practice sheets in Spanish summarize each session and provide practical tips and activities. The program is designed to be neurodiversity-affirming and accessible to Spanish-speaking families.
Location
- University of Colorado Anschutz School of MedicineAurora, Colorado