Therapies can start quite early. A good age is around two 2 years onwards. Earlier intervention starts better for the child. It means having the time to develop skills and find adaptations to enable functioning.

Remember therapists may vary and the style of their work but no therapists can use force like tying up, isolating from family, and using fear by shouting or threatening the child or adult.

Even if a child is uncomfortable at the beginning he or she should settle down eventually.

At ASWB we want parents to be part of the child’s therapy. We encourage parents to be present in the therapy sessions. If parents cannot be present regularly for instance then be present then come on observation dates.

ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis):

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a scientific and systematic approach to understanding behavior. ABA is commonly used in the treatment of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). ABA focuses on observable and measurable behaviors and seeks to understand how these behaviors are influenced by the environment. ABA interventions are often structured, with an emphasis on breaking down complex skills into smaller, manageable tasks. Positive reinforcement is a key component of ABA, where desired behaviors are rewarded to increase the likelihood of their recurrence.

VBA (Verbal Behavior Analysis):

Verbal Behavior Analysis (VBA) is a subset of ABA that specifically focuses on the analysis of language and communication. It was developed by B.F. Skinner emphasizes the functional use of language, understanding how language is used to communicate and achieve specific goals. VBA breaks down language into different functions, such as mand (requesting), tact (labeling), echoic (repeating), and intraverbal (responding to questions or engaging in conversation). The goal of VBA is to teach individuals functional communication skills to enhance their ability to communicate effectively in various situations.
ABA is a broader field that encompasses various interventions, including IBI. VBA is a specialized area within ABA that focuses on language and communication. IBI, often considered a subset of ABA, involves intensive one-on-one interventions, frequently used in the context of autism treatment.

TEACCH (Structured Teaching)

The TEACCH (Treatment and Education of Autistic and Communication Handicapped Children) program is an evidence-based intervention developed to support individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). It was created by Dr. Eric Schopler and his colleagues at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in the 1960s.
The concept of the “Culture of Autism” within TEACCH underscores the idea that individuals with autism have unique ways of experiencing and interacting with the world. The approach aims to understand and adapt to the individual’s preferred learning styles and sensory preferences.

Speech Therapy

Speech Therapy is highly individualized, to enhance an individual’s communication skills, fostering independence and improving their quality of life. Good speech and language therapy focuses on communication rather than just sound production.
For young children with autism providing AAC, that is , alternative and augmentative communication (either in the form of picture communication and singes) can help in development of speech quickly.

For those who are older and do not speak, it is vital they are given access to Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC). As this allows them to continue learning and reduces stress and improves behaviors.

Occupational therapy (OT)

The ultimate goal is to improve the individual’s overall quality of life by enabling them to participate more fully in daily activities and enhancing their independence.
Occupational therapy targets difficulties in motor difficulties that hinder play , communication , self help skills and academics.
Most children with Autism have sensory difficulties in one or more areas. The Sensory motor difficulties may lead to unusual behaviors and avoidance or seeking of certain sensations’. Through occupational therapy many problems  can be reduced .