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Innovative strategies and tools to help a child with ASD

Innovative Tools & Strategies for Supporting Children with ASD

By | Blog

If your child has recently been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, you are probably worrying and wondering about what’s the next best step. You may be uncertain about how to best help your little one or confused by the numerous treatment options and advice available online.

While it is true that ASD is not a condition that a child eventually ‘grows out of,’ there are various innovative tools that can assist them in acquiring new skills and overcoming a wide variety of developmental challenges.

And on that note, let’s explore the top 10 innovative tools and strategies for supporting children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) –

Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS)

Picture exchange communication system incorporates the use of pictures to help children with ASD communicate effectively. Through this approach, children learn to select and exchange cards with symbols, words, pictures, or photographs in order to convey their needs. Moreover, studies have also demonstrated that PECS can play a vital role in decreasing tantrums as well as odd behaviors.

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Devices

AAC devices are characterized as electronic equipment that assist children with ASD in communicating and interacting with others. These devices can be customized to suit individual needs and may include pictures, symbols, and text. While no-tech and low-tech AAC options include writing, drawing, gestures and facial expressions, and pointing to photos and pictures, high-tech AAC devices entail the use of a computer with a ‘voice’ (speech-generating device) as well as apps, iPads, or tables to communicate.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive behavioral therapy can be an effective treatment option for children on the autism spectrum, who have other mental health conditions. These include depression, anxiety, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). A 2010 study also found that CBT, when incorporated with active parent involvement, showed promise as an effective therapy for children aged 3 to 7 with anxiety.

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)

ABA is a form of highly structured therapy that focuses on increasing desirable behaviors and decreasing undesirable behaviors. ABA is well-known as an evidence-based intervention for children with ASD. It is majorly used to help children with autism as well as other developmental disorders, learn behaviors that help them lead more fulfilling and safer lives.

Assistive Technology

Assistive technologies include devices and software that help children with ASD access and participate in learning activities. These comprise tools like text-to-speech software or adapted keyboards. Some examples of assistive technology include battery-operated sensory toys, social skills videos, and visual timers, among others.

Peer-Mediated Interventions

Peer-mediated interventions involve pairing children on the spectrum with typically developing peers. This can help them develop social skills and encourage participation in community-based activities, as well. Peer-mediated interventions also involve teaching peers to interact with and support children diagnosed with ASD, which can play a vital role in promoting social skills and inclusion.

Play Therapy

Play therapy is a form of therapy that enables children to express themselves through play. By using play as the medium, children are able to better explore their feelings and share them with their parents and therapists. Play therapy results in significant improvement in areas such as social skills, language development, regulating emotions, reduction of stereotypical behaviors, or enhanced gross and fine motor skills.

Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapy can help children with ASD improve their fine motor skills, sensory processing, and activities of everyday living. Aligning with this, an occupational therapist’s main role is to inculcate daily life skills, such as self-care, independent dressing, grooming, and eating.

Speech Therapy

Speech therapy can help children with ASD improve their communication skills, including speech, language, and social communication. With the ultimate goal of helping the child interact in more functional and effective ways, speech therapy can help children on the autism spectrum improve their nonverbal, verbal, and social communication skills.

Parent Training and Education

Providing parents with education and training on how to support their child with ASD can significantly help improve their child’s outcomes and overall family functioning. This approach constitutes a wide range of interventions, including psychoeducation, care coordination, programs designed to address maladaptive behaviors, and treatments for social or language development.

In essence, the above-mentioned approaches play a crucial role in improving the developmental outcomes of children with ASD. By tailoring individualized and effective support, innovative tools, as well as strategies, facilitate the acquisition of important life skills and abilities. Ultimately, this enables children diagnosed with autism to achieve greater autonomy and more enriching life experiences.

 

multitude of innovative tools and strategies available to help children with ASD succeed

As discussed, there are a multitude of innovative tools and strategies available to help children with ASD succeed and thrive. These include –

  •         Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS)
  •         Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Devices
  •         Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  •         Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
  •         Assistive Technology
  •         Peer-Mediated Interventions
  •         Play Therapy
  •         Occupational Therapy
  •         Speech Therapy
  •         Parent Training and Education

However, it is important for parents and caregivers to stay up-to-date on these advancements and seek out resources to support their child’s needs.

Since every child on the autism spectrum is unique, they may require different types and levels of care. And Early Autism Services (EAS) is committed to providing the best resources for children with autism as well as their families, personalized to their individual needs.

Our team of experts is trained in the latest techniques and strategies, and we are dedicated to helping each child reach their full potential. So, if you are looking for the best autism care for your little one, make sure you get in touch with us right away.

We are here to help and support you every step of the way!

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Evidence-Based Practices & Treatments for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Evidence-Based Practices & Treatments for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

By | Blog

Over the years, extensive research has indicated that individuals, as well as children diagnosed with ASD, benefit from early and appropriate interventions throughout the course of their lives. In this regard, children on the autism spectrum reap significant advantages through treatments that incorporate evidence-based approaches predominantly for targeting developmental skills. As parents and caregivers consider treatment methods for autism spectrum disorder, it is essential to recognize approaches that have proven or demonstrated efficacy.

So, what exactly are evidence-based practices and treatments for autism?

What is evidence bases practices in treating autism

Evidence-based practices (EBPs) are well-researched interventions that are shown to be safe as well as effective via scientific investigation. According to the National Professional Development Center on ASD, efficacy must be established through peer-reviewed research in scientific journals by virtue of accepted high-standard methodologies. Evidence-based practices or treatments for ASD are established on objective scientific evidence, including the demonstration of measurable results and thorough investigative studies. Here, research plays an integral role in terms of determining whether a treatment is actually effective and, in turn, enabling applied behavioral analysts to design and implement suitable strategies for treatment based on scientific research.

In contrast, non-evidence-based therapies or treatments have not been subjected to former scientific research and inquiry, and have no proof or solid foundation for their effectiveness.

For many parents of children on the autism spectrum, evidence-based therapies’ scientific validation can also grant an added sense of assurance and peace of mind regarding the high likelihood of favorable or positive outcomes.

Evidence-Based Practices for Children with Autism

27 evidence-based practices were identified by the Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute in association with the National Professional Development Center on ASD.

Given below is an incredibly useful list for those willing to know more about scientifically-researched interventions with the highest rates of effectiveness. And for your reference, we have highlighted some of the most commonly used evidence-based autism therapies in order to help you make the right choice –

Cognitive Behavioral Intervention (CBI)

This evidenced-based practice is grounded on the belief that behavior is facilitated by cognitive processes. These interventions are mainly used with children displaying problematic behavior related to specific emotions or feelings, such as anger or anxiety. CBI helps address social, communication, behavior, and cognitive health outcomes, predominantly for elementary school-age learners (6-11 years) to high school-age learners (15-18 years) with autism.

Technology-Aided Instruction and Intervention

Technology, as the central feature of this intervention approach, is used intentionally to increase/maintain and improve daily living, work, productivity, recreation, and leisure capabilities of children with autism spectrum disorder. According to evidence-based studies, this intervention has been effective for pre-schoolers (3-5 years) to young adults (19-22 years) diagnosed with autism.

Antecedent-Based Interventions (ABI)

Antecedent-based interventions (ABI) entail various modifications made to the environment in an attempt to shape or change a child’s behavior. Some of the most common ABI procedures include enriching the environment in order to offer additional cues or access to more materials and incorporating the child’s choice in educational activities or materials. As per evidence-based studies, this intervention method has been effective for toddlers (0-2 years) to young adults (19-22 years) on the autism spectrum.

Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA)

This evidence-based practice is generally used to identify the causes of interfering behaviors: aggression towards others, self-injury, or destructive behaviors. It is typically followed by the creation as well as the implementation of a behavior package in order to address the interfering conduct described.

Peer-Mediated Instruction and Intervention

Peer-mediated instruction and intervention (PMII) is used to teach typically developing peers methods to interact with as well as help learners on the autism spectrum acquire new behavior and communication skills by increasing social opportunities within natural environments. With PMII, peers are methodically taught ways of engaging children with autism in social interactions in both learner-initiated as well as teacher-directed activities.

Response Interruption/Redirection

Response interruption/redirection includes the introduction of a comment, prompt, or other distractors when an interfering behavior occurs. These prompts are designed to divert the attention of the child away from the intrusive behavior and subsequently, lead to its reduction.

Pivotal Response Training

Pivotal response training (PRT) is a naturalistic intervention based on the principles of applied behavior analysis (ABA). Building on learner initiative as well as interests, PRT is particularly effective for the development of communication, play, language, and social behaviors for toddlers (0-2 years) to middle school-age learners (12-14 years) on the autism spectrum.

To summarise, some of the most commonly used evidence-based autism therapies 

  • Cognitive Behavioral Intervention (CBI)
  • Technology-Aided Instruction and Intervention
  • Antecedent-Based Interventions (ABI)
  • Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA)
  • Peer-Mediated Instruction and Intervention
  • Response Interruption/Redirection
  • Pivotal Response Training

The Integral Role of ABA in Autism Treatment 

As other potential and developing practices continue to be analyzed in empirical studies, some of them will undoubtedly be identified as evidence-based. In this regard, several EBPs draw directly from the science of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), which at its core, is used to enhance an individual’s quality of life.

According to Autism Speaks, more than 20 studies have demonstrated that long-term and intensive therapy using ABA principles plays a significant role in improving outcomes for several children with autism. The research finds key improvements in areas such as language development, social and intellectual functioning, as well as other skill sets integral to daily life.

High quality ABA programs, such as those offered by Early Autism Services (EAS), prioritize the values and individual goals of the child. Moreover, it also focuses on meaningful skill development and close collaborations with the little ones as well as their families. At Early Autism Services (EAS), our board-certified behavior analysts are proficient in implementing evidence-based treatments for autism, evaluating treatment strategies, and effectively conducting behavioral assessments. So, if you’re ready to provide your little one with the best autism care in Bengaluru, contact us right away by requesting a free consultation. 

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Effective Autism Therapies Offered by Early Autism Services (EAS)

By | Blog

Since our founding in 2008, we at Early Autism Services (EAS), have continued to stand firm on our belief that the best way to develop and nurture your little one’s potential is through personalized, proactive autism therapy programs.

From understanding your child’s diagnosis to beginning a therapy program that best suits their special needs, there are a lot of steps along the way. And in this regard, our proficient and experienced team of clinicians are here to help!

In addition to offering a 1:1 assessment while engaging and interacting with your child via various play-based methods, our programs combine decades of research and years of experience in Applied Behavior Analysis. This makes Early Autism Services (EAS) one of the finest centers that offer the best ABA therapy in India.

And with a mission to ensure that high-quality therapy is available for every child, here are some of the top therapies for autism offered by Early Autism Services (EAS) –

Center-Based ABA Therapy

Centre based aba therapy for autism

Our center-based ABA therapy services provide children with a fun and inviting environment to encourage learning while enabling them to explore and grow. Since our programs, at the core, are goal-oriented as well as data-driven, we use an effective and interactive play-based learning model. Some of the top advantages of center-based ABA therapy for your child include improved social capabilities, the presence of a safe and structured environment, and an ideal space for learning new and improved skill sets. Additionally, this approach would also enable Early Autism Services’ experienced team of clinicians to build a personalized program for your child and collectively work towards achieving targeted objectives, such as language & communication, pre-academic skills, and self-help.

Social Skills Group 

While social skills are essential for participating in the community and building friendships, for many children with autism, it can be extremely anxiety-inducing and challenging. Hence, in order to help kids effectively develop social skills, Early Autism Services conducts weekly social skills groups for kids between the ages of 6-13. These group interactions and activities help children practice social skills with peers under the guidance of our trained clinicians and board-certified behavior analysts. Remember that with adequate support and practice, your child can progressively build social interaction capabilities, while further encouraging the development of crucial skills, such as speech and language.

Occupational Therapy 

Occupational Therapy Early Autism Services Bengaluru

Amid the numerous therapies for autism, occupational therapy (OT) holds tremendous value in terms of addressing underlying issues such as physical, cognitive, social, as well as motor skills, most likely consistent with autism as well as other sensory processing disorders. With an increasing focus on promoting the development of pivotal life skills, the expert occupational therapists at EAS do a wonderful job of keeping your little one engaged and interested in activities that help them interact with their immediate environment and navigate through their daily life. Furthermore, our well-trained pediatric occupational therapists evaluate your child’s current skills and subsequently plan behavioral strategies, emotional regulation, as well as social skills training.

Speech & Language Therapy 

Speech and Language Therapy

Speech & language therapy plays a significant role in the development of a child diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In addition to enhancing overall communication skills, speech therapy also builds social skills and helps with better functioning in daily life. And at EAS, our holistic speech & language therapy is designed to help treat a varied range of communication issues, such as speech-sound disorders as well as language delays. Moreover, EAS’ programs also help your child produce age-appropriate speech sounds, learn sentence formulation, improve functional communication through AAC, develop novel language, and reduce echolalia.

Since our formation, EAS has grown into one of the largest ABA therapy providers globally. We also conduct regular interactions with an interdisciplinary team by having in-house experts in the field of ABA therapy, speech/language therapy, and occupational therapy – all within the same clinic!

In essence, some of the most effective therapies for autism offered by Early Autism Services (EAS) are

  •         Center-Based ABA Therapy
  •         Social Skills Group
  •         Occupational Therapy
  •         Speech Therapy

As we deeply understand the essence of partnership in terms of creating an effective carry-over from our clinic to the school and home, we prioritize collaborations with teachers, caregivers, and therapists alike, even outside of the EAS realm.

At Early Autism Services, we enjoy working with any child who needs extra support to meet their full potential, so get in touch with our experts right away and choose the best for your child. 

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Autism Spectrum Disorder ASD FAQs

Autism Spectrum Disorder and Early Literacy: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

By | Blog

Children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) possess a unique collection of strengths as well as weaknesses that may influence their academic development. Studies suggest that while children and adolescents with autism are at a higher risk for literacy difficulties, some kids may also be proficient at alphabet knowledge, including reading words and phonetics. But, it is important to note that the ability to read words does not always equal sufficient reading comprehension. Similarly, children may find writing-related tasks relatively more challenging owing to wider complications associated with social communication and linguistic development.

Children with autism don’t necessarily develop early literacy skill sets at par with other typically developing kids. Although some kids learn to recognize alphabets and letters at a significantly young age, they may lack other facets of early literacy, like understanding why people write and read or figuring out the intentions and actions of various characters in a story.

However, with combined efforts from you and your child’s therapist, and with a little extra time and patience, your child can indeed make significant progress in their academics and early learning! So, in order to make your literacy journey with your little one smoother, we have compiled a list of the most common questions that parents often have, with in-depth answers by our experts – 

What are some of the most important literacy skills I should teach my child?

important literacy skills I should teach my child

A:  While learning the alphabet and numbers is essential, your child must be familiar with fundamental, basic literacy skills in order to effectively develop reading and writing abilities to the best of their potential. These include knowing how to hold a book properly and turning pages without tearing them, speaking and understanding words and sentences using the right pronunciation, story comprehension, holding a crayon and a pencil, and writing his/her own name, in addition to the names of immediate family members. It’s also important for the child to be able to hold his attention for a brief period of time to be able to focus on the act of writing. Do not force kids to sit. You can allow them to scribble while standing. Gradually help them sit and write. Feel free to use pencil grippers to make it easier for the child. Sound awareness, such as perceiving that words can be broken down into simpler syllables and knowing that every letter has a unique and distinct sound, is an important literary element, as well. 

How can I make reading time more interesting for my kid?

How to make reading interesting for my child with autism

A: Here are some ways you can make reading or study time more interesting for your child – 

  • Use visual aids and structured activities
  • Don’t be afraid of using props, figurines, puppets, and other objects to make those stories come alive!
  • Keep instructions simple and clear to understand
  • Use your voice and facial expressions to add meaning and interest
  • Ask questions when reading together – for instance, ‘what do you think the bird is feeling?’ ‘what do you think happens next?’ or even ‘what is the color of the little boy’s shirt?’ are definitely some good places to start.

My child has minimal vocal skills. Is there any way I could help them read?

A: The answer is yes! Some parents presume that children on the autism spectrum who can’t speak or have minimal vocal capacities cannot possibly learn to read. However, that’s far from the truth! In fact, many children also seem to understand how to read on their own – despite not receiving direct literacy instruction. They do so in several ways, including matching sentences and words to pictures or even following written text with their finger as an adult reads to them. You can also establish pre-reading skills at an earlier stage in their life by asking your kid to point to different characters, turning the pages of books, or giving them the opportunity to pick the reading material of their choice. 

Should I discourage my child from reading ‘non-conventional’ reading materials and only focus on story books?

Early Autsim Spectrum FAQsA: Children with autism enjoy reading magazines and books related to their interests. These can include non-fiction books about animals, space, and dinosaurs, in addition to magazines about automobiles or pamphlets and periodicals with simple images. They should certainly not be discouraged from reading such books since it encourages them to interact and engage with words and pictures printed on the pages. Moreover, you can also have conversations with your child about what they’ve been reading in order to keep up with their interests and provide them with additional material when required. 

My child refuses to write or even look at the paper. What can I do to assist her?

A: While this is a common problem experienced by parents, being patient, empathetic, and encouraging is one of the best keys to use here. Ensure that you’re not frustrated because of their refusal to interact with stationery and books. Instead, make use of visual or digital cues to help your kid better understand lines, words, and shapes. This approach not only helps them grasp the essence of making movements with a writing tool, such as a pen, stylus, or pencil but provides them with an actual purpose and end result of using those lines – such as transitioning from scribbling random lines/shapes to writing actual words. Remember, at times it really helps when the adult engages in tasks that they would want the child to do. Colour their favourite cartoon character, paint/sketch while talking about preferred themes (cars, locations, animals, zoo trips etc).

What are some everyday reading and writing strategies to use with my child on the autism spectrum?

A: Reading and writing don’t necessarily have to happen only in school or during study time at home. So, here’s how you can incorporate reading and writing into your child’s daily schedule – 

  • Label items present in your child’s immediate environment. For example, you can place a label that says ‘keys’ next to the keyholder or a sticker that reads ‘remote’ on the TV remote. 
  • Give your child easy access to paper, crayons, and pencils, so they can write or draw whenever they wish to. 
  • Encourage them to recognize and read words in their surroundings, such as hoardings and billboards, menu cards at restaurants, packaging labels, birthday or wedding cards, and even road signs. 
  • You can also ask your child to help you note down grocery shopping items, write to-do lists, and label their belongings. 

Remember that you certainly do not need to wait until your child begins schooling in order to inculcate early literacy skills and interest; because the earlier you start, the better results you achieve. By pointing out printed words in your child’s daily life or by providing your child with colorful and simple reading material, you can surely take the first step towards fostering a life-long love and interest for books!

And if you require additional assistance with your child’s special academic and literacy needs, make sure you get in touch with our behavior analysts & clinicians and schedule a free consultation right here.

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Earliest Signs of Autism Spectrum Disorder bangalore

Earliest Signs of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

By | Blog

Several children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) show developmental differences, especially in their communication and social abilities when they are toddlers. However, since they tend to crawl and walk on time, similar to peers of their age, less evident inconsistencies in behaviors, gestures, expressions, as well as language delays, often remain unnoticed. In addition to speech and interactive differences, parents may also notice abnormalities in the way their child interacts with other kids and family members.

While the signs and symptoms of autism spectrum disorder differ, their effects also vary from one child to another. For instance, some children diagnosed with autism may only suffer from mild or minor impairments, whereas the others are likely to face significantly more challenges, especially in terms of developmental milestones. However, every child on the autism spectrum may experience problems to a certain degree, primarily in areas such as verbal and non-verbal communication, relating and interacting with their surroundings, as well as behavioral and emotional complications.

How to distinguish a child with ASD from other typically developing kids?

As a parent or caretaker, you are in one of the best positions to identify the earliest and even the most unnoticed warning signs of autism spectrum disorder. Children with typical patterns of development eagerly respond to social bids, such as waving ‘bye-bye’ while leaving or looking at where you are pointing. But, children with autism tend to look at your hand instead of where you’re pointing and rarely respond to social interaction bids.

Since you understand your child and their behavioral patterns better, you are more likely to spot discrepancies others may fail to see. As a result, it is imperative that you pay close attention to if or when your child accomplishes important emotional, social, and cognitive markers to effectively identify the problem at the earliest. However, it is also important to note that developmental delays might not only point to autism spectrum disorder but also specify a heightened risk. And here, the key is to inform and educate yourself to understand what’s typical and what’s unusual when it comes to your little one –

Social & Communication Differences:

  • Lack of interest in communicating or continuing a conversation
  • Less likely to point to objects or people
  • Unresponsive to their name being called
  • Little to no eye contact
  • Not talking as much as their peers
  • Difficulty in making friends
  • Unusual gaze or vision — might view objects from atypical angles
  • Highly sensitive or insensitive to sounds, odors, lights, and touch
  • Prefers repetitive routines and rituals (stimming) – apprehensive toward change
  • Anxious about social situations

How to distinguish if a child has autism

The earliest signs of autism may unfold between 9 to 16 months and can be fairly easy to miss. However, if not caught early, these symptoms can have an adverse impact on cognitive development, resulting in language, social, and behavioral deficits. Moreover, in certain cases, the earliest symptoms of autism can even be misread as signs of a ‘good child’ since the baby may appear undemanding, silent, and independent.

So, when you know what exactly to look for, you can effectively catch the warning signs early on – since they don’t involve the presence of atypical behaviors, but instead, the absence of typical ones –

  1. 6 – 9 Months – Children with autism spectrum disorder may not smile or show other joyful emotions that others babies their age tend to express. On the other hand, some children may show minimal facial expressions and smile very rarely, which could be an early sign of autism.
  2. 9 – 12 Months – A typically developing baby will turn when its name is called. Children with ASD, however, may not turn to respond even when their name is repeated multiple times. Babies are generally motivated to look at faces, but if it’s difficult to get your child to look at you, this is likely an early indication of autism.
  3. 12 – 18 Months – By this age, a typically developing child begins to ‘baby talk’ or babble in order to communicate, but this milestone will likely be hampered in children with autism. Moreover, there can also be an absence of back-and-forth gestures, including waving or pointing. They may also be unable to make up for the delay in talking or confine their speech to repeating words heard within their immediate surroundings.
  4. 18 – 24 Months – Babies learn to use words, sounds and gestures to let parents know what they want or don’t want. Children are also eager to interact with objects and people as a way to communicate or even garner attention. Since they are now capable of shifting their attention from one setting to another, this creates numerous opportunities for learning from social interactions. However, if your child insists on particular things being the same and tends to become really upset and agitated over unexpected changes or if it is difficult for him or her to use gestures as well as sounds while looking at you at the same time, these aspects could be a strong indication of autism spectrum disorder.

As concerned parents, you may have been asked not to worry or to even wait it out. However, waiting could by far be the most unhelpful thing to do, given the risk of losing crucial time at a tender age when your little one may have the best possible chances of improvement. Besides, it is highly unlikely that your kid might ‘grow out’ of the problems and challenges they face, whether caused by autism or other developmental concerns. And in this case, your child might require additional assistance as well as targeted treatments and therapies for autism, such as applied behavior analysis (ABA), cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), and early intervention.

Although every child develops at a pace different from the others, take a breather before you panic or worry if your kid is delayed to some extent in walking, talking, or reaching other developmental milestones. Nevertheless, if you do suspect a problem, make sure you share your concerns and apprehensions with your child’s pediatrician immediately – do not try out the ‘wait-and-watch’ approach. Sometimes, even doctors who mean well can misread red flags or under-evaluate the problem. So, make sure you listen to your instincts when you feel something is wrong, and continue to be persistent in seeking a second opinion or scheduling an appointment with a developmental specialist.

For more information, get in touch with our behavior analysts and trained professionals right here. We’re happy to assist you regarding any concerns you have about your child’s development needs and provide you with the best possible treatment options!

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What are the Different Therapies for Autism?

What are the Different Therapies for Autism?

By | Blog

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is characterized as a developmental disability stemming from a combination of environmental and genetic or non-genetic influences. Children with ASD often have problems associated with social interaction or communication, in addition to different ways of paying attention, learning, and moving.

Since autism is a spectrum disorder, every child diagnosed with the condition possesses a distinct set of challenges and strengths. For instance, the manner in which individuals with autism think, learn, and solve problems may range from severely challenged to highly skilled and efficient. While some children with ASD may need intensive behavior intervention and support in order to complete day-to-day tasks, others will likely require relatively lesser support and, in some cases, can live independently as well.

Autism Diagnosis and Treatment

Autism Diagnosis and Treatment Bangalore

Diagnosing autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can be challenging since there exists no specific medical examination, such as a blood test, in order to identify the condition, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). As a result, physicians analyze the developmental and behavioral history of the child to make a diagnosis. In this regard, some of the common signs and indications of autism are:

  • Unprecedented reactions to sounds, sights, tastes, smells, and touch
  • Dependence on routines and rules
  • Difficulty in maintaining eye contact
  • Repetitive behaviors
  • Minimal interest in pretend play

Also, it is crucial to note that a child with autism spectrum disorder will not demonstrate all symptoms, and the signs may also vary in intensity.

Autism care is highly effective when started early with younger children, such as infants and toddlers experiencing developmental delays. Children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder also have the best chance of utilizing the majority of their abilities if they obtain appropriate therapies and interventions. Moreover, research indicates that early diagnosis and interventions for autism, such as before or during preschool, can have significant positive influences on symptoms and future skills.

Therapies for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) 

Presently, a standard therapy for treating autism spectrum disorder does not exist. However, studies have shown that medication is most functional when combined with behavioral therapies. Although various therapies have the potential to support children with autism, the treatment recommended for every child may differ based on personality, age, as well as a diverse range of abilities. It is also integral that autism treatment focuses on a child’s specific needs instead of the diagnostic label since an overlap in symptoms can emerge between ASD and other conditions, like attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

From understanding your child’s diagnosis to beginning a therapy program, there are several steps along the way. So, for starters, how do you choose from all the different therapies available for autism? Read on to find out –

  • Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)

Considered a gold-standard treatment for autism and other developmental conditions, applied behavior analysis entails a type of therapy that can improve communication, social skills, and learning via reinforcement strategies. Applied behavior analysis for autism results in children communicating more effectively, learning to ask for things they want, showing more interest in those around them, and remaining more focused in school, among other developments. An added advantage of ABA therapy is that it can also be conducted at home. In fact, studies show that some children work best with in home ABA since they feel more comfortable and relaxed in an environment they’re familiar with.

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive behavioral therapy for autism focuses on the connection between feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. It can also help children manage the challenges they face by helping them understand and recognize how their thoughts, behaviors, feelings, and emotions influence each other. Conventional CBT requires strong abstract thinking capabilities and linguistic skills. However, this can be challenging for children with autism. As a result, researchers have developed certain modifications to traditional behavior therapy, rendering it more ASD-friendly and making it more concrete, visual, and repetitive.

  • Early Intervention

As per research, early diagnosis and interventions for autism are more likely to have a positive long-term impact on ASD symptoms as well as future skill sets. Early intervention occurs at or before the child begins preschool, as early as 2 or 3 years of age. With early intervention, some autistic children make significant progress and are no longer on the autism spectrum when they are older. These programs typically include nutrition services, hearing impairment services, family training, and physical therapy as well.

  • Relationship Development Intervention (RDI)

Relationship development intervention teaches children with autism how to form bonds and fortify relationships with their parents, guardians, and other family members. Primarily recognized as a family-based therapy, the components of RDI for autism include social, psychological, and flexible thinking. While the child must learn to cope with difficult transitions, the parents also undergo training, thus becoming the child’s main therapist. At its core, RDI is a parent-led approach that concentrates on enabling autistic children to think flexibly, develop social skills, and learn to engage and build close relationships.

  • Speech and Language Therapy

Speech and language therapy plays a vital role in helping your child overcome social isolation while enhancing their understanding and use of communication. Often, it is also possible that a child with autism may have a comorbid diagnosis necessitating speech therapy. Here, it can be advantageous to integrate a therapy type that provides suitable treatments for both autism as well as the health condition. Speech therapy for autism can be highly beneficial; however, it may not be the most impactful strategy for children suffering from severe ASD.

  • Play Therapy

To many kids with autism spectrum disorder, playing is the way they best express themselves. In this regard, their actions, toys, and other play items become their words and manner of expression. Play therapy can significantly aid children with ASD connect with others, predominantly in a way they understand and feel comfortable with.

What’s Next?

Child undergoing ABA Therapy

As demonstrated, numerous therapies can help children with autism enhance and strengthen their abilities to the best of their potential and reduce their symptoms. Although beginning therapy early, either before preschool or during, greatly improves the chances for success, it is never too late to start treatment.

And at Early Autism Services (EAS), we prioritize just that!

The curriculum in our well-designed program combines decades of research as well as years of experience in applied behavior analysis in order to provide children and parents with the best possible results. So if you’d like to learn more about the autism therapy services we offer, get in touch with us right away.

To Summarize

Here are some of the most effective therapies for autism available today

  • Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  • Early Intervention
  • Relationship Development Intervention (RDI)
  • Speech and Language Therapy
  • Play Therapy

Infants and toddlers experiencing developmental delays benefit greatly from autism treatment when started early. In addition, children with autism spectrum disorder are more likely to be able to utilize their abilities if they receive appropriate therapies and interventions.