Every child with autism is unique, and understanding the early signs of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can make a big difference in getting the right support. Early diagnosis opens the door to important services like early intervention and ABA therapy. If you suspect your child might need support, getting started with our autism therapy services in NJ or at one of our many other locations is just a phone call away!
Let’s dive into some of the most common early signs of ASD and how our personalized ABA therapy can make a real difference in your child’s growth and development.
Delayed Communication
One of the earliest signs of autism that parents may notice is a delay in communication skills. Here are some behaviors to keep an eye on:
- Not responding to their name
- Limited babbling by their first birthday
- Difficulty with actions like pointing or waving
A major focus of ABA therapy is building language and communication skills. Our skilled BCBAs use techniques like language modeling, prompting, and alternative communication to help children hit important milestones and communicate their needs. As your child’s communication skills grow, you’ll often see a decrease in challenging behaviors!
Social Skills
Children with autism often face challenges in social interactions. Some common signs include:
- Difficulty making eye contact
- Limited interest in other people
- Struggles with sharing toys
- Challenges in group play
As kids grow and interact more with their peers, these social difficulties can become more noticeable.
That’s where ABA therapy comes in! We provide structured group play opportunities, like circle time, to help kids build important social skills. The social tools they learn through ABA can support them in any environment they encounter as they grow!
Sensory Sensitivity
Many children with autism experience sensory sensitivities. They might be extra sensitive to:
- Bright or flashing lights
- Loud sounds
- Certain textures
- Large crowds
- Strong scents
For example, a child might feel distressed by certain fabrics or cover their ears in response to sounds that might not bother others. These sensitivities can be overwhelming and affect their behavior.
Our personalized ABA therapy helps teach kids coping skills to manage these sensory challenges, making everyday experiences more comfortable for them.
Repetitive Behaviors
Repetitive behaviors are often an early sign of autism. Kids with ASD may:
- Engage in repetitive movements, like hand-flapping or rocking
- Spin objects or toys for long periods
- Develop strong interests in specific topics
- Focus intensely on certain objects
- Get upset when routines or schedules change
ABA therapists take the time to understand why these behaviors occur and work with kids to find alternative actions that are less disruptive. We also use structured schedules to help kids anticipate what’s coming next, reducing uncertainty and helping them manage repetitive behaviors more effectively.
The Importance of Early Intervention
Research shows that starting interventions early can make a world of difference in ABA therapy outcomes. If you think your child might be showing early signs of autism, don’t wait—reach out to your healthcare provider! Getting started with ABA therapy in Philadelphia, New Jersey, or any of our other locations can have a big impact on your child’s growth and quality of life.
At Helping Hands Family, we’re here to empower families with the tools and support they need to help their children thrive. Contact us today to learn more about our personalized ABA therapy!
