Enhancing Infant Vocalizations: A Focus on Early Caregiver Interactions for Infants with Down Syndrome

1. Dr. Mary Jane Weiss (Endicott College)
2. Dr. Kathleen Feeley (Long Island University-Post)
3. Dr. Eilis O'Connell-Sussman (Endicott College)
4. Dr. Martha Pelaez (Florida International University )
5. Dr. Hayley Neimy (Endicott College, University of British Columbia )

Correspondence: eoconnel@endicott.edu

Infants with Down syndrome face a well-documented risk for language delays starting in early infancy. However, social interactions have consistently been identified as a relative strength for individuals with Down syndrome. This strength presents a key opportunity for intervention. This presentation will review a line of research exploring how specific contingent caregiver social interactions impact the production of speech sounds in infants with Down syndrome (O’Connell-Sussman et al., 2025). We will discuss the effects of different caregiver responses impact on speech sounds, including imitation and expansive repertoires (Feeley et al., 2011; Fiani et al., 2021; Neimy et al., 2020; Pelaez et al., 2011). Additionally, we will review the use of targeted prompts designed to establish and increase regular vocalizations in infants with Down syndrome who may not be vocalizing frequently (e.g., Jones et al., 2010). The findings highlight practical strategies for caregivers to leverage their infant's social strengths to accelerate early speech sound production.