LuxAI is proud to announce, together with the Luxembourg Institute of Health (LIH) and the University of Birmingham, the launch of the world’s first large-scale, long-term study exploring how a social robot can support early development for young autistic children at home. Powered by QTrobot, this pioneering research marks a major milestone in digital health innovation and early-years autism support.
A 10-Month, Real-World Study With 69 Families
The study will follow 69 families with autistic children aged 2.5–4.5 years, assessing how QTrobot’s interactive, game-based learning can strengthen development in communication, language, social interaction and early cognitive skills. Funded by the Luxembourg National Research Fund and the Luxembourg Ministry of the Economy, this is the first time a socially assistive robot is being evaluated in such a large-scale, longitudinal home-based setting.
QTrobot acts as an engaging, predictable partner for children, delivering guided exercises that adapt to each child’s pace. Families receive structured tools and support, designed to empower parents and make early developmental learning more accessible at home.
A Major Step Forward for Early Autism Research
While previous studies have shown encouraging results for robot-assisted learning, they have typically been small or short-term. This study aims to close that gap.
Families in the UK’s West Midlands will take part in the study over a 10-month period, with researchers evaluating both child development and parental self-efficacy.
Study Recruitment Now Open
The research team is currently recruiting families in the West Midlands with autistic children aged 2.5–4.5 years. Interested parents can contact the study coordinators at [email protected].
