What are the possible treatment options available for children with Autism?
Each child in unique and so is the response to treatment. Currently varied kinds of treatment and parental counseling options are available. The target treatment for children with Autism is to increase social behavior, verbal – nonverbal language, increase functional independence (Self Help Skills), decrease ritualistic behavior patterns and improve academic functioning. Let’s look at some of the options commonly heard about for Autism Rehabilitation.
Early Intervention: I have personally witnessed that earlier the intervention, better is the prognosis. I have seen amazing amount of improvement in children who were detected early with autism and intensive treatment began at the correct time. There is an improvement in every sphere from overall reduction in symptoms to behavioral adjustments. The parents are more settled with the child and denial is absent, which in itself is a very healthy sign.
Structured Therapy: Children with autism benefit best with intensive structured therapy, which is usually one on one in the beginning and later, transitions into a group therapy. Clear firm boundaries and rules help the child to exhibit his/her best potential and reduces tantrums.
Speech Therapy: A consultation to a good speech therapist is a Must. Speech therapy concentrated on oral motor exercises, imitation, Augmentative and Alternative Communication like Picture Exchange Communication System works beautifully for many children with autism. Social skills therapy is another promising area to foster communication and increase assertive social communication in children with autism.
Remedial Education: Remedial education training forms an important part of treatment for children with autism. Individualized education program aimed to increase academic knowledge are required to mainstream the child and develop a sense of independence.
Occupational and Sensory Integration therapy are necessary to reduce hyperactivity, improve balance and sensory difficulties, fine and gross motor skills etc.
Behavior therapy: Applied behavior analysis form an integral part in treatment for children with autism. It helps to reduce hyperactivity, increase sitting tolerance, reduce tantrums, increase attention span etc. Behavior strategies to modify maladaptive behaviors is a must and is a great help to the parents and care givers of children with autism.
Medication: A visit to a neurologist, developmental pediatrician, and child psychiatrist is important on a regular basis. It helps to keep a check on aggressive behavior, obsessive compulsive behaviors, hyperactivity etc.
Parental Counseling: It is necessary for parents to orient themselves with the problem, learn coping strategies, understand their child better, participate in parent support groups, share their concerns and keep themselves updated about important developments and treatments.
Miscellaneous: There a number of other treatments available like GFCF Diet (I personally seen a child benefiting greatly because of this diet), Music therapy, Animal Assisted therapy etc.
These are some of the treatment options globally available for children with autism. I would end the article on a prayer that each child diagnosed with autism receives the best of intervention and care required. They are special, unique and can blossom beautifully with the correct intervention.
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