B-56: Early Language Functioning and Autism Severity in Toddlers From a Neonatal Intensive Care Follow-Up Program

Abstract

Objective: Children followed in neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) programs are at increased risk for neurodevelopmental delay and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) (Blackard et al., 2021). Language concerns often prompt referral for autism evaluations (Nitzan et al., 2022); however, the relationship between early language and ASD severity remains unclear. This study examined whether CLAMS performance was associated with DSM-5 ASD severity levels. Method/Data Selection: A retrospective chart review was conducted of children ages 25–40 months referred from a NICU follow-up clinic who completed the Capute Scales and received an ASD diagnosis via the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS-2). CLAMS scores were examined in relation to ASD severity levels (Level 2–3). The sample included eight children (Level 2: n = 5; Level 3: n = 3). Results/Data Synthesis: CLAMS scores ranged from 47–68 (M = 52.5, SD = 7.1). Children with Level 3 ASD demonstrated slightly lower scores (M = 51.3, SD = 5.9) than Level 2 (M = 53.2, SD = 8.3), reflecting a small effect size (d = 0.26). Analyses suggested a trend toward lower scores with greater ASD severity. Conclusions: Early language delays were common, with lower scores in higher ASD severity. Findings are preliminary due to small sample size. ASD severity may not fully capture variability in young children, and classifications may change over time. Early language assessment may support developmental characterization.