
About STAARS
The Studying Autism and ADHD in earRly yearS (STAARS) project researches the early development of baby brothers and sisters of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), Attention Deficit Disorders (ADHD) and typical development.
Why is STAARS Important?
Autism and ADHD are developmental disorders affecting social development and communication. Though scientific research has advanced our understanding of these conditions in older children and adults, very little is known about how the conditions develop over the first few years. Using newly developed techniques for studying brain and behaviour in infants, STAARS scientists identify the earliest signs of these disorders, allowing for earlier and more effective intervention to improve the quality of life for children and their families.


Funding
BASIS was formally launched in May 2008, following funding from a consortium of charities led by Austistica, with support from the Medical Research Council and the EU-AIMS project.
Our values
As a neurodiversity-affirmative study, we recognise individual differences across the population and value the unique experiences of neurodivergent people. We strive to create an inclusive and accessible research environment that respects and understands the unique needs and strengths of all our participants and their families.