9 Early Intervention for Autism

This chapter is based on the Social Ecological Model.

Some children see and understand the world differently. This is true for those with autism. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a condition that affects how the brain develops. It changes how someone talks, acts, and gets along with others (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). ASD’s characteristics include social interaction, communication, and behavior patterns that typically appear before the age of three (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). Providing early intervention for children with autism, especially during the critical first five years, can make a massive difference in long-term outcomes (National Institutes of Health, 2021). Early childhood intervention (ECI) focuses on various therapies and support systems that help children develop cognitive, social, and emotional skills. All in all, ECI means getting help through therapy or special support when the child is young. When children receive support early, they are more likely to become independent, communicate more effectively, and experience an improved quality of life (Dawson et al., 2010).

Importance of Early Intervention

The first few years of a child’s life are critical for brain growth. During this time, the brain can adapt quickly and learn new skills with ease (Shonkoff & Phillips,  eds., 2000). The image above of a puzzle-piece brain reflects the complexity and uniqueness of each child’s developmental path, highlighting why tailored interventions are essential. Kasari et al (2023) stress that multiple approaches may be necessary as each child can respond differently. Early intervention takes advantage of this period to help children develop key skills, like communication and socializing. Research shows that children who get help before they turn five are more likely to do well in school and everyday life (Dawson et al., 2012; National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, n.d.). Without early intervention, children with autism may struggle with speech, social connections, and behavior regulation.

For example, children who get early intervention show better progress in their language and thinking skills. In a study with early intervention, thirty percent of the children with autism and developmental delays improved language skills to comparable levels with kids without language difficulties. (Kasari et al., 2023). Without addressing these challenges, children with autism may struggle with speech, making friends, and handling behavior, which can make it harder for them to succeed later in life (National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, n.d.). Early intervention not only supports a child’s development but also alleviates the challenges faced by families, allowing them to understand how to best support their child’s growth.

Individual

Identifying autism early and starting therapy during childhood can lead to significant improvements in development. Early intervention includes therapies and screenings that foster communication, social, and emotional skills (Daniolou et al., 2022). Tools like the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT) detect early signs and enable prompt therapy (Kleinman et al., 2008). Identifying autism before age three is linked to better long-term outcomes (Zwaigenbaum et al., 2015).

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a widely used therapy that breaks tasks into small steps and reinforces desired behaviors (Leaf et al., 2015). Strategies include discrete trial training, prompting, modeling, and positive reinforcement. When implemented early, ABA improves communication, academics, and behavior. A foundational study found that children receiving intensive ABA showed a 47% increase in intellectual functioning by age seven, compared to 2% in children who did not receive the therapy (Lovaas, 1987).

While early screening plays a vital role in personal development, support from a child’s relationships can further enhance outcomes.

Relationship

Support from family and peers plays a powerful role in how a child with autism grows and connects with others. Families who are informed and involved can offer steady support that improves emotional development and daily progress (Bearss et al., 2015). Positive peer relationships, with both neurotypical children and those with autism, help build empathy, communication, and aempathy sense of connection (Carter et al., 2014). Families can utilize programs to build communication skills and support connections.

The Hanen More Than Words Program trains parents to support their child’s communication. Parents learn to recognize and respond to their child’s communication attempts, which improves language and social skills (The Hanen Centre, n.d.; Erbaş et al., 2021). One study showed that children whose parents participated in the program improved their expressive language and social engagement (Erbaş et al., 2021). Parents also reported increased confidence in helping their child. This involvement strengthens family relationships and empowers parents in their child’s development.

While strong relationships help children with autism grow socially and emotionally, broader community programs can create inclusive environments where all children can thrive.

Community

The settings where children spend time, like schools, daycares, and community programs, can strongly influence how included and supported they feel. Raising awareness and reducing stigma helps ensure community acceptance (Yizengaw, 2021). Programs encouraging public participation, such as inclusive playgroups and after-school clubs, help children develop socially and build confidence (Carter et al., 2013). Teachers can be trained to recognize early signs and collaborate with families to initiate support services. Community programs give children with autism opportunities to practice social skills, build confidence, and engage with others in settings outside of school (Yizengaw, 2021). 

Best Buddies International supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities through friendships, leadership training, and employment (Best Buddies, 2023). For children with autism, it fosters social inclusion and consistent peer interaction. Participants showed more social engagement, improved self-esteem, and reduced isolation (Carter et al., 2013). The peer-based model encourages empathy and inclusion in everyday settings.

Community support works best when paired with larger systemic efforts that ensure equity and access to services.

Societal

Access to early autism support often depends on laws, available funding, and how much the public understands the condition. Public policies that increase funding for early intervention and improve access to special education services can support children with autism (Autism Speaks, n.d.). These policies are a necessity for families who face additional challenges, such as limited access to health care, financial resources, or educational support (Gupta et al., 2007). Government support programs (e.g., Medicaid, the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), and Supplemental Security Income (SSI)) can help families of children with special needs access essential healthcare and services (Pickel, 2024). Advocacy groups and government programs ensure that these families have access to the necessary resources and that autism awareness continues to be a public priority (Gupta et al., 2007).

The Autism CARES Act provides federal funding for autism research, training, and services (Doda et al., 2024). It supports early diagnosis, professional education, and resources for underserved populations (Autism Society, 2024). Since its passage, the act has funded over 25,000 grants, expanding access to early intervention and specialized services (Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee, 2019). In 2024, the Autism CARES Act was extended for five years with multiple priorities, including continued research across the lifespan and promoting more children’s healthcare providers specializing in developmental-behavioral issues (Autism Speaks, 2024).

As policies evolve, continued advocacy is needed to ensure that all families—regardless of income, insurance, or location—can access the necessary tools and support.

References