Autism is a complex neurobiological disorder which impairs a person's ability to communicate and relate to others.
Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) can usually be reliably diagnosed by age two or three, although new research is pushing back the age of diagnosis to as early as 6 months. Parents are usually the first to notice unusual behaviors in their child or their child's failure to reach appropriate developmental milestones. Some parents describe a child that seemed different from birth, while others describe a child who was developing normally and then lost skills. These signs may be initially dismissed and parents may be advised that their child will “catch up” and they should “wait and see”. New research shows that when parents suspect something is wrong with their child they are usually correct. If you have concerns about your child's development, don't wait: speak to your pediatrician about getting your child screened for autism.
If your child is diagnosed with autism, early intervention is critical to gain maximum benefit from existing therapies. Although parents may have concerns about labeling a toddler as “autistic”, the earlier the diagnosis is made, the earlier interventions can begin. Research indicates that early intervention for at least two years during the preschool years can result in significant improvements for many young children with autism spectrum disorders. Effective programs focus on developing communication, social, and cognitive skills.
Quickstepz Paediatric Therapy believes that treatment for these young children with ASD or who are at risk of ASD needs to be tailored to where their core deficits exist i.e their social interaction and communication patterns. Perhaps we need to re-focus our attention to what we want for our children when they grow up - to be able to have meaningful relationships, connect with others and communicate effectively with people.
When the child is ready, they will be matched with a peer and begin peer sessions focusing on social interaction between the two children. Socialisation skills with peers develop spontaneously and are not learnt by teaching a child specific ‘rules’ about how they should interact or talk to another child. Floortime is a perfect medium for successful play between children to develop. The therapist supports the play is seen as a ‘mediator’ in the play while the children lead.
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