In recent years, knowledge and information surrounding autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have become much more widespread, available, and accurate. With this flood of information has come the realization that so many more individuals may have struggled to cope with autism without a formal diagnosis for years.
Thankfully, we can correct this in future generations with better early identification efforts.
An early diagnosis is massively beneficial for those on the spectrum because it gives growing children the best possible opportunities to thrive. The quality of life of children who get diagnosed can be significantly improved with appropriate intervention. This is possible through:
- Timely referrals
- Access to ASD resources
- Interventions to reduce maladaptive coping behaviors and encourage healthy ones
- Ensuring family members understand the child’s struggles
Research reveals that a diagnosis before the age of three is most impactful, as it allows for significant early intervention. Most children who are diagnosed prior to three undergo evidence-based treatments like applied behavior analysis (ABA), which leads to enhanced long-term outcomes in behavior, communication, and adaptive skills.
The typical youngster who receives around 30+ hours of intensive ABA therapy every week is twice as likely to close cognitive development gaps as children who get less than 12 hours of therapy. Those children who receive more therapy are also three times as likely to achieve average everyday skills.
Another advantage of early intervention is that it decreases the likelihood of needing more intensive services later on in life, as the child is able to grow more independently than without the therapy and assistance.
The only way to receive the right resources and early intervention is to first get an early diagnosis.
Unfortunately, many families do not receive a proper diagnosis until their children reach four years or older. The main reason for this is because there are usually many waiting lists to see specialists who can make a proper diagnosis. Other reasons include inconsistent screening, cultural or language barriers, lack of provider training, and social stigma.
First, the child’s pediatrician typically notices concerns during developmental screenings, and then they recommend a visit with a specialist.
To encourage early diagnosis, pediatricians should always use a modified checklist for autism in toddlers (M-CHAT). This is a questionnaire that will be filled out by the parent and can be used to assess the child’s risk of being autistic.
Do You Need Additional Autism Support for Your Child in Las Vegas?
If your child has been formally diagnosed with autism, then our facility can help provide the “golden standard” of autism care, ABA therapy. This evidence-based approach can help your child shed maladaptive coping mechanisms, develop prosocial skills, become more independent, and thrive in various social situations. We can also help your child become more comfortable in school by creating a mock school environment during some therapy sessions.
Get started on filling out your enrollment form now or contact our facility directly at (702) 660-2005 to learn more about our services.
