Research suggests peer imitation can be taught using systematic procedures and can be embedded into ongoing play contexts with preschool-age children. However, additional research is needed to test procedures that may increase levels of peer imitation with toddlers with disabilities and in generalized contexts. We used a multiple probe across participants research design to evaluate the effectiveness of progressive time delay (PTD) to teach peer imitation to preschoolers with disabilities during a play activity with a peer. We also examined the efficacy of PTD in a generalized context (i.e., new peers, implementer, and materials). Visual analysis indicated a functional relation between PTD and unprompted peer imitation; however, generalization was variable across participants. Our results support previous research indicating PTD is effective in teaching children with disabilities to imitate their peers.
Keywords: imitation; peer-mediated instruction; play.