As a parent, the last thing you want to believe is that there is something wrong with your child. But if you suspect that your child might be delayed in developing the way they should be, waiting is the worst thing you could do. Recent research supports the fact that a child’s early experiences alter the brain dramatically, yet many doctors are still prescribing a “wait-and-see” strategy for toddlers who might later be diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or another developmental disorder. That being said, early intervention, if warranted, should never be postponed. Even the youngest children are able to improve their skills in social communication, language and other important skills through structured ABA therapy programs.
Dr. Temple Grandin persevered to turn her autistic traits into strengths and become a highly contributing member of society. When reviewing the book Children and Autism, by Ennio Cipani, PhD, she stated, “Both parents and professionals who work with young children with Autism should read this book. Many hours of intensive one-to-one behavioral therapy can bring about great improvements, especially when it is started at an early age. The worst thing that can be done with an autistic 2 or 3-year-old is nothing. When I was two, I had all the full blown symptoms of Autism. By age two and a half I was in a therapy program for many hours a week. If my parents left me in the corner at a young age, I would not be a college professor today.” And at Metro Parent’s 2010 Living with Autism Workshop, Dr. Grandin’s number one strategy she offered was, “Get professional services like Early Intervention and Applied Behavior Analysis in place for your child as soon as you suspect he or she may be autistic.”
The younger a child starts therapy, the more benefits they will realize if they have Autism or another developmental disorder. Paying close attention to the warning signs in babies and toddlers is crucial, as it will affect how they live the rest of their lives. If Autism is caught in infancy, treatment can take full advantage of the young brain’s remarkable plasticity. But no matter your child’s age, don’t lose hope. Treatment can reduce Autism’s effects and help your child learn, grow, and thrive.
Applied Behavior Analysis, commonly referred to as ABA, is the only therapy endorsed by the Unites States Surgeon General as the most effective treatment for individuals diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder. ABA is also endorsed by the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Psychiatric association, the National Academy of Sciences, ABA International, Parents of Autistic Children, American Academy of Speech-Language Pathologists, and many more professional organizations, including federal and state government agencies. ABA is highly effective as evident by over 40 years of research demonstrating that the techniques of Applied Behavior Analysis result in creating and sustaining meaningful changes in the behavior of individuals.
The bottom line is that if you find that your child is not meeting the developmental milestones set out by the American Academy of Pediatrics, you should seek a specialist to assess your child and start therapy as soon as possible if needed. If they don’t find anything to be concerned about, you’ve only spent a small amount of time ruling out something very important that may affect your child for the rest of their lives. But if they confirm a developmental delay, you are able to get your child help at the earliest juncture. The difference you will make in your child’s and family’s life will be invaluable.