Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurological condition that begins in childhood (possibly even developing before birth) and influences an individual’s ability to learn, communicate, and behave in the same ways as others. ASD is a spectrum, which means it includes a wide variance of challenges that will be different in every individual who has ASD.
Early intervention methods, like Applied Behavior Analysis Therapy, or “ABA therapy,” have proven to be powerful tools in helping individuals with ASD work on new skills that help them enjoy increased ability to engage socially and develop independence. If your child has recently been diagnosed with ASD, finding an ABA therapy center is key to setting a foundation of success for their future.
Understanding the Long Term Impacts of Autism Spectrum Disorder
Children with ASD experience challenges with communication, independence, and emotional regulation. They may also have other challenges (like repetitive behaviors) that can affect their ability to begin and complete tasks. As they grow, these challenges grow with them.
Social Implications
Making and keeping friends, interacting with others, and understanding social structures can be troublesome for children with autism. As they age, they may find themselves more comfortable isolating and avoiding social situations, especially if they have not acquired the skills to handle unique social situations that could cause them to feel uncomfortable. Isolation can become a coping skill if early intervention methods aren’t used.
Independence
It’s quite common for parents to dote on their children, especially when they are very young. However, for children with autism, a reliance on parental intervention for every task can become commonplace. If a child with autism does not show interest or willingness to complete tasks independently, it’s natural that their parents will complete it for them. Unfortunately, this can lead to less independence as children age, and both the child and parent may become frustrated when expectations of independence are not met.
The best way to approach these challenges is through early intervention. The sooner a child is exposed to a type of learning that works for them, the sooner they can begin to work on new skills. Through early intervention, children with autism can thrive.
How Early Intervention With ABA Therapy Plays a Role
Research consistently proves that early intervention is key to helping children with autism thrive and sets them up for successful futures where they can feel comfortable socially, lead a more independent lifestyle, and maintain a level of responsibility.
Early intervention with ABA therapy is the gold standard. It is research driven, and shows that children who receive intensive ABA therapy early in their lives have more positive outcomes as they age.
Social Skills
All children need guidance in learning how to interact socially, but children with autism may find social situations even more challenging. ABA therapy bridges the gap through the use of social interaction through play.
Through these methods, children can navigate (with the help of BCBAs) social situations that naturally arise through play. Children can also work on skills to help them in more challenging situations that their BCBA may use through role playing. These methods allow children to work on new social skills in a safe and consistent environment, preparing them for the unexpected situations they’ll face in life.
Independence
Fostering independence is beneficial to both children and their parents. Through ABA therapy, children are encouraged to complete small tasks through the use of prompts and positive reinforcement. Smaller tasks, like brushing teeth or washing hands, can help a child feel empowered and boost their self esteem.
Larger tasks may be broken down into smaller parts, so that the child can focus on small steps instead of the entirety of the task which could feel overwhelming. These methods of task completion can become a cornerstone for living independently.
It Starts With an ABA Therapy Center
Early intervention can mean the difference in your child being their most successful. Finding the right ABA therapy center is important. The best fit is the one that works best for your and your child. Interviewing and touring several different facilities that are close to you can be the best way to find a center that both you and your child will love. Stride Autism Centers are conveniently located and offer a range of programs that can be custom-tailored to help your child based on their specific needs.
Your child has amazing abilities, and early intervention with ABA therapy can ensure they are able to use them all and work on new skills to support them throughout their entire life.
Brad Zelinger is the founder and CEO of Stride Autism Centers.