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Published on: July 31, 2017
Developing and implementing early intervention plans for children with autism spectrum disorders
Vanessa Khouri Smith1, Ann Dillenbeck
1Visiting Nurse Association of Chittenden and Grand Isle Counties, Colchester, Vermont 05446, USA. zekesmith@tds.net
Insights
Early intervention for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is crucial. This article highlights promising practices for speech-language pathologists supporting communication development in very young children with ASD.
Area of Science:
- Neurobiology
- Developmental Pediatrics
- Speech-Language Pathology
Background:
- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurobiological disability impacting communication and social interaction.
- Early diagnosis is possible by age 2, with intensive early intervention critical for positive outcomes.
- Limited research exists on effective interventions for children under 3 with ASD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present promising practices for speech-language pathologists (SLPs).
- To guide SLPs in developing early intervention plans for toddlers with ASD.
- To support families in early intervention for autism spectrum disorder.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of early intervention strategies for ASD.
- Focus on communication development as a priority area.
- Collaborative approach between SLPs and families.
Main Results:
- Identification of key intervention areas for young children with ASD.
- Emphasis on the SLP's role in early support.
- Strategies for family-centered intervention planning.
Conclusions:
- Speech-language pathologists play a vital role in early intervention for ASD.
- Collaborative, family-centered practices are essential for effective support.
- Further research is needed on interventions for children under 3 with ASD.
Abstract:
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurobiological disability that affects communication, social interaction, and behavior and can now be reliably diagnosed in children as young as 2 years of age. Research indicates that intensive early intervention is critical for improving outcomes for children with ASD and their families. There is, however, scant research describing effective intervention programs for children under the age of 3. Because communication is one of the core developmental areas affected by ASD and is likely to be an area parents consistently identify as a priority, speech-language pathologists are in a critical position to support children with ASD and their families at the earliest stage of intervention. The purpose of this article is to present promising practices for speech-language pathologists to use while collaboratively developing and implementing early intervention plans for children with ASD and their families.
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