As you’ve probably heard in the news and recent studies, the rate of Autism is soaring among young individuals. The CDC reveals that 1 in 36 children are diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder in the United States. That is approximately 2.78% of the entire population. These children need assistance from qualified professionals in order to develop essential skills and improve their overall quality of life. However, due to financial constraints and geographical barriers, many children with Autism are not able to access intervention.
Autism Treatment
One of the proven and effective treatments for people with Autism is ABA Therapy – Applied Behavior Analysis. It helps enhance behavior, communication, motor skills and even personal hygiene. It also reduces maladaptive behaviors while promoting the acquisition of new skills like manners or self-care— a task many struggles with.
Although numerous therapies exist for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ABA differentiates itself by its comprehensive nature in addressing various levels across skillsets and behaviors. A recent study demonstrated that young children provided with timely and intensive ABA treatment undergo drastic positive transformations largely in their communicative and adaptive behavior.
Methods available to bolster a particular skill set
In an interview, Sydney Balgohaught, serving as the Director for the Independence Through Intervention Program, reiterates the plethora of methods available to bolster a particular skill set, especially in the context of communication. For children, strategies can range from employing Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices to utilizing sign language or picture exchange systems to convey their thoughts and needs effectively. This comes in handy when integrating individuals with Autism into a world dominated by neurotypicals, ensuring their unique needs and strengths are acknowledged.
Accommodation and Adjustment
In Sydney’s words, it is not solely the responsibility of individuals with ASD to conform to societal norms, but rather, society should also create an inclusive environment to accommodate neurodiverse individuals. Emphasizing on identifying each individual’s strengths, she affirms that ABA has proven to be a successful and transformative tool.
If you or someone you know is in need of services, she highly recommends researching ABA service providers in your local area for potential support and growth opportunities. This approach has the potential to bring about immense positive change, enhancing the lives of individuals with ASD.
Getting Autism Diagnosis
As daunting as a diagnosis of Autism may initially appear, it’s always one of the best causes of action to seek, especially if you suspect the disorder in your child. With proper support and assistance, there are limitless possibilities for individuals with Autism to accomplish and excel.
At Nevada Autism Center, our team of highly-trained experts is committed to delivering personalized and comprehensive care to aid Autistic children in reaching their maximum potential.
