Early Intervention Highly Effective For Children With Autism: ASD Study

News Desk

Islamabad: A novel early intervention program for very young children with autism – some as young as 18 months – is effective for improving IQ, language ability and social interaction; according to a study published online in the journal Pediatrics.

Early interventions start as early as 2 or 3 years old, or at or before preschool age. A young child’s brain is still forming during this time, making it more “plastic” or adaptable than at an older age. Its flexibility increases the likelihood that treatments will be successful over the long run.

Children who receive early treatments not only have the finest possible start in life but also the best chance of reaching their full potential. The sooner a child gets help, the greater the chance for learning and progress.

The autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurological and developmental disorder characterised by repetitive behaviour, poor eye contact, delayed speech, and communication difficulties. ASD requires early intervention to allow afflicted children to develop to their full potential as contributing members of society.

Autism is known as a “spectrum” disorder because there is wide variation in the type and severity of symptoms people experience. Although autism can be diagnosed at any age, it is described as a “developmental disorder” because symptoms generally appear in the first 2 years of life.

Natural Play Therapy (NPT) Coach Dr Shagufta said that early intervention is crucial for improving outcomes for kids with ASD. Its symptoms can differ from kid to child, and no two autistic children are comparable. A psychologist could identify autism utilising various evaluation techniques as the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS), and Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS).

She added that individuals with autism frequently engage in repeated actions like hand flapping, leaping up and down, rushing around, and not responding to their name.

Dr Shagufta informed that ASD can exist alone or as part of another genetic syndrome like Down’s syndrome and Fragile X syndrome which can also occur as a result of brain damage secondary to meningitis and cerebral palsy.

Early intervention programs often include, family training, speech therapy, hearing impairment services, physical therapy, and nutrition services.

Paediatrician Dr Shagufta said that there are several interventions available, including behaviour therapy and play therapy. Play therapy can assist affected individuals think more creatively, as well as their social and emotional skills. It helps widen how they interact with others and play with toys.

She stated that autism is not a one-man show and its treatment requires a multidisciplinary team of therapists, including family members. “The amount of support and services the child will require in the future will depend on the work put in by the therapists, parents, and the way the youngster responds to his team.”

NPT Coach emphasised that the level of help needed for people with autism spectrum disorders varies based on the person’s needs and level of development. Family plays a critical part in a child’s growth and development since they may offer essential support, guidance, and acceptance.

ASD is a condition that has to be understood, supported, and accepted rather than being a disease that can be cured. Those with ASD ought to be treated with the same respect and decency as everyone else, opined Dr Shagufta.