Comparative effectiveness trial: Modular behavior approach for young autistic children compared to comprehensive behavioral intervention

This 24‐week single‐blind trial tested a modular approach for young autistic children (MAYAC) that was delivered for fewer hours per week and modified based on child progress and parental input compared to comprehensive behavioral intervention treatment as usual (CBI, TAU). Participants were autistic children, ages 18–60 months of age. MAYAC was initially 5 h of intervention per week, one of which was parent training and the other four direct therapy focusing on social communication and engagement, but additional modules could be added for up to 10 h per week. Comprehensive behavior intervention was delivered for ≥15 h per week. Outcome measures included the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales; VABS, the Ohio Autism Clinical Improvement Scale – Autism Severity; OACIS – AS and the Pervasive Developmental Disorder Behavior Inventory – Parent; PDDBI‐P. Implementation and parent satisfaction measures were also collected. Fifty‐six children, mean age of 34 months, were randomized. Within‐group analysis revealed significant improvements from baseline to week 24 for both MAYAC (p