Autism
Autism
Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), refers to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication.
What To Expect With Autism Treatment
Children and adults with Autism may have challenges with both speech and nonverbal communication. They may also find it very hard to interact socially. For these reasons, speech therapy is a central part of treatment for autism. It helps children with speaking, as well as communicating and interacting with others. It can involve facilitating joint attention through play activities, taking turns in a conversation, and using and understanding gestures. It might also teach kids to express themselves using picture symbols, sign language, or dedicated apps/devices. It is very important to start speech therapy as early as possible, when it can have the biggest effect.
OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY
Occupational Therapists are often part of the treatment team for children who are diagnosed with Autism. The focus of intervention for children on the Autism spectrum is similar to that of children with developmental delay, however OT can also help parents with education, can offer suggestions to modify tasks or the environment to optimize success and offer help with structure and attention to task, so that children are more available for learning.
SPEECH THERAPY
Speech therapists are often part of the treatment team for children who are diagnosed with Autism. The focus of intervention for children on the Autism spectrum is similar to that of children with developmental delay, however speech can also help parents with training use of alternative forms of communication (e.g., sign language, picture supports, ipad communication apps) when appropriate and offer help with social-emotional regulation and attention to task, so that children are more available for communication.
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