A comprehensive evaluation of language for early behavioral intervention programs: The reliability of the SKILLS Language Index

Early intensive behavioral intervention (EIBI) is a well-established treatment for children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and is thus widely recommended. However, the content of EIBI programs presumably varies considerably and may not always be tailored to the individual strengths and deficits of each child. Few assessment tools exist (and none have been psychometrically evaluated) which attempt to identify appropriate targets for treatment in EIBI programs. The current study evaluated the reliability of the subscales of the SKILLS Language Index, an assessment tool for EIBI programs. Results demonstrated excellent internal consistency, inter-rater, and test-retest reliability.