
ABA therapy is considered the most effective for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). However, this has better results when it starts at an early age because the intervention positively takes advantage of the plasticity of the patient’s brain.
In this sense, younger children tend to respond with remarkable efficiency to the environmental stimuli that surround them, which is extremely beneficial for their brain development.
This responsiveness allows them to quickly assimilate information and promote the formation of new neural connections that are essential for the development of skills and abilities.
At this crucial stage, the child’s brain is constantly growing and particularly receptive to sensory experiences, social interactions and educational stimuli. By exposing them to an environment rich in positive stimuli, a range of opportunities opens up for their cognitive, emotional, and social growth.
Among the specialized approaches to early intervention is the Denver Early Start Model (ESDM), which begins in children between 12 and 48 months. This comprehensive play-based therapy helps patients develop communication, social and cognitive skills.
The therapy uses play as a fundamental tool to promote positive relationships. In addition, it can be used in various environments such as home or school, both individually and in groups.
Likewise, experts agree that early intervention helps prevent problematic behaviors from worsening, which can be complex at an older age and interfere with learning development.
Parents and families also benefit because they can have access to methods, weekly training and access to different tools to promote children’s development and prevent an increase in inappropriate behaviors.
Therapies that start as early as possible allow children to improve their social skills through interaction with other infants in a structured and supportive environment. As a result, patients are able to start conversations, improve interactions, and make friends.
In addition, the development of social skills will allow better school performance, which can avoid crises of frustration and low self-esteem in children. This will also give them skills to achieve professional success.
Although autism constitutes a set of complex conditions that does not have a definitive cure, early intervention with ABA therapies is key to promoting positive behaviors and skills in diagnosed children.
This evidence-based therapeutic approach not only aims to improve the quality of life for children with autism in the short term but also has a significant impact on their development and overall well-being in the medium and long term.
By providing them with the necessary tools and support from an early age, they are given the opportunity to reach their full potential and integrate more effectively into society.
Autism Speaks. (no date). Early Start Denver Model (ESDM). https://www.autismspeaks.org/early-start-denver-model-esdm
Raisingchildren.net.au. (2022, May 19). Early Start Denver Model. https://raisingchildren.net.au/autism/therapies-guide/early-start-denver-model
Rise up for autism. (no date). The Importance Of Early Intervention In ABA Therapy. https://riseupforautism.com/blog/aba-therapy/importance-early-intervention-aba-therapy/
Sparks. (2023, September). 5 Benefits of Early Intervention for Autism. https://www.sparksaba.com/family-resources/5-benefits-of-early-intervention-for-autism
Wellspring Learning Center. (2023, June 13). The Importance of Early Intervention ABA Programs. https://wellspringlearningcenters.com/the-importance-of-early-intervention-aba-programs/
World Health Organization. (2023, November 15). Autism. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/autism-spectrum-disorders