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When it comes to supporting children on the autism spectrum, the old saying couldn't be more true: The earlier, the better. Decades of research have shown that kids who begin therapies like ABA at younger ages tend to have greater outcomes.
When it comes to supporting children on the autism spectrum, the old saying couldn't be more true: The earlier, the better. Decades of research have shown that kids who begin therapies like ABA at younger ages tend to have greater outcomes.
There are several reasons why early intervention, ideally before age 3, is so impactful:
There are several reasons why early intervention, ideally before age 3, is so impactful:
- The brain is more malleable and able to reorganize pathways during early childhood, which aids in developing new skills and behaviors
- Addressing delays as soon as possible and setting a strong foundation prevents further disparities from emerging
- Earlier support taps into the crucial developmental periods for speech, communication, motor, and cognitive growth
- Without timely intervention, children may miss opportunities to progress at expected rates, creating larger gaps over time.
That's why it's so important for parents to act quickly if they suspect developmental delays and seek prompt ABA screening and services for their child, rather than taking a "wait and see" approach.
That's why it's so important for parents to act quickly if they suspect developmental delays and seek prompt ABA screening and services for their child, rather than taking a "wait and see" approach.
Early intensive ABA therapy of 20-40 hours per week, begun before age 4, has shown to significantly improve cognitive, language, academic, and social abilities in many young children with autism. Some kids make such substantial progress that they can be integrated into general education classrooms later on.
Early intensive ABA therapy of 20-40 hours per week, begun before age 4, has shown to significantly improve cognitive, language, academic, and social abilities in many young children with autism. Some kids make such substantial progress that they can be integrated into general education classrooms later on.
Even children who begin ABA at older ages still see meaningful improvements, but their brains' plasticity means earlier is better for maximizing their fullest potential.
Even children who begin ABA at older ages still see meaningful improvements, but their brains' plasticity means earlier is better for maximizing their fullest potential.
Of course, accessing intervention can be challenging due to costs, waitlists, and other logistical hurdles. Having an experienced ABA provider to guide you in navigating resources and paving the path forward is invaluable.
Of course, accessing intervention can be challenging due to costs, waitlists, and other logistical hurdles. Having an experienced ABA provider to guide you in navigating resources and paving the path forward is invaluable.
No parent should delay in pursuing early ABA for their child. Acting now provides the best opportunity for long-term outcomes.
No parent should delay in pursuing early ABA for their child. Acting now provides the best opportunity for long-term outcomes.
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