Autism is one of a group of severe personality disorders that can disrupt social relationships and communication skills. Autism often leads to lifelong disabilities, but research has proven that early detection and intervention can radically change the outcome a child experiences. Christina Corsello, Ph.D., in her text “Infants and Young Children,” reviewed autism early intervention programs and determined that each had positive and negative aspects, but children in all programs that received intervention before the age of 3 years had higher functioning levels than those children who did not receive therapy.
Therapeutic Activities
In a study published in “Pediatrics” in 2009, researchers found that children diagnosed with autism at 18 to 30 months who received therapeutic intervention for two years had higher functioning IQs and social development than children who did not. IQ, language and adaptive behavior improved so much that 30 percent of the subjects no longer met the diagnostic criteria for autism. During the study subjects were exposed to applied behavioral analysis teaching methods combined with relationship-based approaches.
Applied Behavior Analysis
Applied behavior analysis is an objective discipline that relies on measurement and objective evaluation of behavior. Therapists do not use vague terms, but quantify frequency, duration and other measurable qualities. Once goals are set, interventions are designed to teach new skills or reduce any interfering behaviors. Activities build on language, social, academic and self-help skills using the expertise of trained therapists. The Community Services for Autistic Adults and Children in Maryland uses these techniques to help their younger patients develop and continue to reinforce behaviors in the adults. This type of intervention also relies heavily on the participation of parents.
Sensory Integration
In a study released from Temple University in April 2008, researchers found that children who underwent sensory integration therapy exhibited far fewer autistic symptoms than children who received standard treatment. Ninety-one percent of parents surveyed found that the children who received sensory integration therapy during the study exhibited improved behavior.
Family Involvement
The New York State Education Department found that the success of a program depends heavily on family involvement and support. Parents and guardians must stay informed of the treatment plan so that it may also be transferred to the home environment. Parents should also be provided with the opportunity to meet with therapists and have regular communication regarding the progress the child is making.
References
- “Infants & Young Children”; Christina Corsello, Ph.D.; 2005
- "Pediatrics"; Randomized, Controlled Trial of an Intervention for Toddlers with Autism: The Early Start Denver Model; Geraldine Dawson, Ph.D.; November 2009
- Science Daily: Autistic Mannerisms Reduced by Sensory Treatment
- Community Services for Autistic Adults and Children: Early Intervention and Preschool
- New York State Education Department: Autism Program Quality Indicators
