“My child was just diagnosed with ASD – what do I do now?”
This is a frequent question we hear from parents of young children. Children with ASD have a unique learning style that often requires a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach. Sorting through the many treatment options can be quite difficult for families new to the diagnosis.
Below are some elements of a treatment plan that address different aspects of children’s learning, development, and behavior. But remember − no two children or families are alike (whether or not they have ASD!), and intervention plans need to be individualized to the specific needs of child as well as their families. For all interventions, look for therapists who have experience with children with ASD and who involve parents by providing training and/or coaching.
Early Intervention (EI) System
What is it?
Early intervention programs are part of a statewide system of services designed to promote children’s age-appropriate growth and development, as well as support families, during the critical birth to three years. EI staff work with families to develop an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP), which identifies goals and the support services needed to meet them. EI services are often provided in the family’s home, though some may be center-based or take place elsewhere in the child’s natural environment.
Who provides it? In Washington, this system is called Early Support for Infant and Toddlers (ESIT). EI providers include Family Resource Coordinators (FRCs), early childhood specialists, speech-language pathologists (SLPs) and occupational therapists (OTs).
Speech and language therapy
What is it?
Speech and language therapy helps children learn to communicate, both verbally and nonverbally. Goals can focus on helping children use speech sounds or language, or communicate via augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems such as picture boards or electronic devices.
Who provides it?
Speech-language pathologists (SLPs)
Occupational therapy (OT)
What is it?
Occupational therapy helps increase children’s participation in everyday activities. Goals may target motor skills, self-care activities, and play skills, as well as sensory and feeding issues.
Who provides it?
Occupational therapists (OTs).
Behavioral intervention (ABA)
What is it?
Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) is a behavioral intervention that employs the principles of learning to increase desired behaviors, decrease undesired behaviors, and teach new skills. ABA therapists address a range of different skill areas, including communication, play, social skills, daily living skills, and challenging behaviors.
Who provides it?
Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA) oversee treatment programs and may also provide direct services. In-home services are often provided by therapy assistants, supervised by BCBAs.