Follow the white robot: Efficacy of robot-assistive training for children with autism spectrum disorder

Socially assistive robots have the potential to become a powerful therapeutic tool for individuals affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). However, date, only few studies explored efficacy of robot-assisted training embedded in structured clinical protocols. The current study aimed at investigating beneficial effects introducing toy robot, as new clinicians, treatment plan carried out an Italian healthcare institution. In collaboration with professionals Piccolo Cottolengo Genovese di Don Orione, we designed robot-mediated activity improving social skills children ASD. Twenty-four ASD (Age = 5.79 ± 1.02, 5 females) completed activities robot cross-over design, during period ten weeks. Their were assessed before and after intervention activities, using Early Social Communication Scale (ESCS). Results showed that combination standard therapy was more effective than alone, terms improvement skills. Specifically, training, improved their ability generate respond behavioral requests, tendency initiate maintain interaction adult. Our results support idea interventions can be combined improve outcomes.