Kennedy Krieger Leads National Study for New Virtual Screening Tool to Detect Autism and Developmental Delays as Early as 12 Months Old

The Center for Autism Science, Services and Innovation (CASSI™) at Kennedy Krieger Institute is inviting parents nationwide to participate in a research study to test a new virtual developmental screening tool designed to identify autism and delays in children as young as 12 months old and reduce wait times for care.

Kennedy Krieger Researcher Named 2026 Ralph L. Sacco Scholar for Brain Health

Sarah Kettlety, Ph.D., a postdoctoral researcher at Kennedy Krieger Institute and Johns Hopkins University, has been named a 2026 Ralph L. Sacco Scholar for Brain Health.

Kennedy Krieger Awarded $4 Million NIH Grant to Launch Innovative Wearable Brain Imaging Study in Toddlers with Autism

The Center for Autism Services, Science and Innovation (CASSI™) at Kennedy Krieger Institute has received a $4 million grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to launch one of the first studies using wearable brain imaging technology to examine how toddlers with autism develop spoken language.

Kids and Medical Complexity

About 1% of all children in the U.S. have multiple significant and chronic health problems, or what’s known as “medical complexity.” Kennedy Krieger happens to be a leading treatment center for children whose medical complexities affect the brain, spinal cord, nerves, or muscles.

Director’s Message

Hello, readers! As spring unfolds, it brings a renewed sense of energy and possibility, along with meaningful progress in our work and partnerships across the state. This season is also a time of growth and momentum, as initiatives take shape and advocacy efforts move forward. We invite you to learn about what has been happening at the Maryland Center for Developmental Disabilities (MCDD) and Kennedy Krieger Institute, as well as in the broader community.

Special Announcements

The MCDD is pleased to share a special announcement featuring our newest Project HEAL team member.

2026 Maryland Developmental Disabilities Day at the Legislature

On Feb. 18, the Maryland Developmental Disabilities Coalition hosted the annual Developmental Disabilities Day (DD Day) at the Legislature in Annapolis. DD Day provides an opportunity for self-advocates, family members, providers and trainees to come together in support of key issues affecting the lives of people with disabilities in Maryland.

MCDD 2026 Annual Learning Series

The MCDD’s 2026 Annual Learning Series runs from February to October. The series consists of virtual continuing education workshops (CEUs available), each three hours in length, with interdisciplinary topics focused on working with individuals with intellectual, developmental and other disabilities, and their families.

Autism Research and Engagement Core Updates

The Autism Research and Engagement Core team continues to contribute to national research efforts, publishing timely articles and reports that explore key issues facing the autism community.