How Can Early Intervention Strategies Be Used To Treat Autism?

Getting a child with autism into an early intervention program such as ABA therapy can have life-changing benefits that can help develop communication, improve behavior, and help a child to become more successful in the future. What are early intervention strategies for autism? 

These can include Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), low tech alternative and augmentative Communication (AAC), social stories, speech therapy, picture exchange communication systems, and occupational therapy.

Research has shown that effective intervention strategies in early childhood may boost a child’s IQ by over 17 points. A child’s brain is more formable at this stage, and early autism intervention can improve language and motor skills so that older children present closer to typically developing children.


While ABA therapy is often used in these strategies, each treatment is personalized to fit each child’s needs. Here are the 5 early intervention strategies for children with autism:


1. Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) Therapy

ABA therapy is a popular treatment approach that is used for children with autism. Applied Behavior Analysts focus on identifying problematic behaviors and using strategies to help children manage and modify these behaviors. ABA therapy can benefit children who have aggressive behaviors. 

ABA therapy is also effective for teaching communication and social skills, encouraging positive behavior, and teaching calming strategies for children with autism, including creating a calm space and giving a child the skills to cope with strong emotions and sensory processing.


2. Low Tech Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC)

Young children who have difficulty communicating verbally may use low-tech alternative and augmentative communication (AAC) aids that are non-electronic and non-digital. 

Picture boards and sign language are examples of low-tech AAC. By using these tools, individuals can express themselves, communicate their needs and desires, and supplement or replace verbal communication.


A. Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS)

Picture boards are often used with individuals who have the limited verbal ability. They consist of a board with pictures or symbols representing different words or phrases. The individual can utilize the picture or symbol to communicate what he or she wants to say.

Here are some examples of items and concepts that can be represented in a PECS program:

  • Food and drinks - Pictures of favorite foods and drinks can be used to request meals or snacks. 
  • Activities - Pictures of favorite activities like playing with toys, watching TV, or playing outside can be used to express desires and preferences. 
  • Emotions - Pictures of facial expressions and emotions can be used to express how the individual is feeling. 
  • Places - Pictures of different locations like the bathroom, bedroom, or park can be used to request to go to a specific place. 
  • People - Pictures of family members, friends, or caregivers can be used to request to see or spend time with a specific person. 
  • Actions - Pictures of actions like "eat," "drink," "play," or "sleep" can be used to express needs or desires.

B. Sign Language

Sign language is a visual language that uses hand gestures and body language to communicate. It is used by many individuals with hearing impairments or those who have difficulty with verbal communication.

For example, if you wanted to say "Hello" with sign language, you would wave your hand and fingers up and down in front of your face.


3. Social Stories

Social story strategies are another therapy tool that works well for early intervention for children with autism. For example, trained therapists create a personalized story for a child to teach them about behavior or prepare them for a social situation (i.e. first day of school, trip to the dentist)


4. Speech Therapy

The purpose of speech therapy in early intervention for autism is to improve the communication skills. Speech therapists work with individuals with autism to develop communication goals and create a treatment plan that is tailored to their individual needs. Treatment may include a range of activities such as play-based therapy, language drills, and social skills training. 

In general, speech therapy can be an essential part of a comprehensive autism treatment plan, helping individuals improve their communication skills and better engage with their surroundings.


5. Occupational Therapy

This common early intervention strategy works for teaching children with autism how to perform daily activities. These include improving fine motor skills, developing more extensive motor skills, boosting visual skills, improving communication, and teaching problem-solving skills.

Benefits Of Early Autism Intervention

An early diagnosis of autism can lead to life-changing benefits for you and your child. That’s because getting your child into therapy early can help him or her learn to communicate, work on reducing negative behaviors, promote positive growth, learn how to interact with others, and discover the best ways to help your child learn academically.

If you want your child to benefit from a fun, professional, caring, and inclusive environment, the Therapy & Learning Center of Georgia can help you get started.


ABA Therapy In Georgia

The Therapy & Learning Center of Georgia specializes in speech therapy and autism therapy for children with autism spectrum disorders. Our autism center in Georgia offers a range of personalized programs led by a team of Board Certified professionals who help your child learn skills that will help them live their best life.


05 Aug, 2024
At the Therapy and Learning Center of Georgia (TLC), we pride ourselves on providing comprehensive and coordinated care to support the unique needs of each child. Our multidisciplinary approach integrates Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Speech Therapy (ST), and Occupational Therapy (OT) to create a seamless and effective therapeutic experience. Here's how these therapies work together to promote the best outcomes for our patients. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) ABA therapy is a cornerstone of our treatment programs, particularly for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Our ABA sessions are intensive, typically ranging from 30 to 40 hours per week. This evidence-based approach focuses on improving specific behaviors, such as communication, social skills, and adaptive learning skills, through positive reinforcement and data-driven strategies. Our dedicated registered behavior technicians work one-on-one with children under the supervision of their BCBA to target individualized goals and track progress meticulously. Speech Therapy (ST) Communication is a critical aspect of a child's development. Our speech therapists offer targeted intervention to enhance speech and language skills, typically in 30-minute sessions twice a week. These sessions are designed to address a variety of needs, including articulation, language comprehension, expressive language, and social communication skills. By integrating ST into a child's overall therapy plan, we ensure that language development is supported across all settings, including during ABA sessions. Occupational Therapy (OT) Occupational therapy at TLC focuses on helping children develop the skills they need for everyday activities. Depending on the child's needs and treatment plan, OT sessions range from 30 minutes to an hour each week. Our occupational therapists work on improving fine motor skills, sensory processing, self-care activities, and adaptive behaviors. By addressing these areas, OT helps children gain independence and confidence in their daily lives. Integrated Scheduling for Comprehensive Care At TLC, we understand the demands placed on families who are navigating multiple therapy appointments each week. To ease this burden, we strive to coordinate ST and OT appointments during the times children are already at the clinic for their ABA sessions. This integrated scheduling approach offers several benefits: Convenience for Families: By aligning therapy schedules, we reduce the need for parents to make multiple trips to the clinic, saving time and reducing stress. Consistent Therapeutic Environment: Children receive their therapies in a familiar setting, which can enhance comfort and cooperation. Collaborative Treatment: Our therapists work closely together, sharing insights and strategies to create a cohesive and comprehensive treatment plan tailored to each child's needs. Maximized Therapy Time: Coordinated schedules ensure that children can receive the full range of therapeutic interventions without unnecessary gaps or overlaps. A Unified Approach to Child Development The collaborative model at TLC ensures that each child's therapy plan is holistic and well-rounded. Our ABA, ST, and OT professionals communicate regularly to review progress, adjust goals, and ensure that all aspects of the child's development are being addressed. This unified approach not only supports the child’s growth across multiple domains but also provides families with a supportive and coordinated care team. At the Therapy and Learning Center of Georgia, our commitment is to provide high-quality, integrated care that meets the diverse needs of our patients and their families. By working together, our ABA, ST, and OT teams help children achieve their full potential in a nurturing and efficient manner. If you have any questions about our services or would like to schedule an appointment, please don't hesitate to contact us.
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