Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a condition that affects a child’s social skills, communication, and behavior. In other words, it means that a child’s brain develops and functions differently and can affect how a child understands and relates to others. The signs of ASD begin during early childhood.
Predominance
Approximately 1 in 54 children is diagnosed with autism.
It is diagnosed approximately 4 times more in males.
It occurs in all racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups.
Diagnosis:
Diagnosis research has shown that an autism diagnosis at 2 years of age can be reliable, valid, and stable. Studies show that parents of children with autism notice a developmental problem before their child’s first birthday, with difficulties in communication, social skills, and motor skills being the most evident from 6 months of age.
Our team is prepared to conduct a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation using validated instruments such as the ADOS-2, the BOSA, the ADI-R, and the TELE-ASD-PEDS. Simply use this link to schedule an appointment or write to us at.
Source:
Center for Disease Control’s Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network.
DEVELOPMENTAL MILESTONES
The signs of autism often exist before a child’s second birthday. Here are some of the milestones that are important to keep mind as your child grows:
At 9 months
Smiles and laughs while looking at you Vocalizes frequently with babbling Reaches for things they want
At 12 months
Responds by looking when called by name Enjoys playing social games like peek-a-boo Uses gestures like giving, showing, and pointing Uses consonant sounds and a few simple words (examples: “mama” “baba” for bottle)
At 18 months
Plays with dolls or stuffed animals Imitates the words you say and actions in play Uses at least 10 words Says many different consonant sounds Identifies familiar people and body parts.
At 24 months
Shows interest in playing with other children Combines many actions during play (examples: removing, pouring juice, feeding a doll) Uses at least 50 words Identifies objects when named Makes simple sentences like “Mommy go outside” “What’s that?”
At 36 months
Enjoys imaginative play with others Takes turns in conversation Answers questions Uses longer sentences Follows instructions of two to three steps Uses speech that is understood most of the time.
Source: Marcus Autism Center, NIH Autism Center of Excellence
If your child is not meeting these milestones on time, simply use this link to schedule a free appointment or write to us at [email protected]
ABA: APPLIED BEHAVIOR ANALYSIS
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a science that uses the principles of behavior analysis to teach socially significant behaviors. It involves helping children learn the context of play or other activities that are normally part of their daily lives. If you are engaged in an activity you enjoy, it is easier to learn, remember, and want to do it on other occasions.
Educational sessions based on these principles break down each behavior we want to teach into smaller elements, which we teach step by step.
The National Autism Center in the United States and the American Psychological Association consider ABA-based intervention among the most recommended and effective practices, as long as it is properly applied, under the guidance of experts in the field.
If you are interested in services based on the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) use this link to request an appointment or write to us at [email protected]. Our services are available worldwide.