Unlocking Potential: The Transformative Benefits of Early Intervention Speech Therapy for Children with Autism

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects approximately 1 in 36 children in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. One of the most significant challenges faced by children with autism is communication. Many struggle with both verbal and non-verbal communication, which can lead to frustration, social isolation, and developmental delays. However, there’s a powerful tool that can make a world of difference: early intervention speech therapy.

Early intervention is a critical approach in supporting children with autism. It’s based on the principle that the earlier we address developmental challenges, the better the outcomes. This is particularly true when it comes to speech and language development. The brain’s plasticity in the early years provides a unique window of opportunity to shape communication skills and lay the foundation for future learning and social interaction.

Thesis: Early speech therapy can significantly improve outcomes for autistic children, offering a range of benefits that extend far beyond just speaking. From enhancing social skills to boosting cognitive development and increasing independence, the positive impacts of early intervention can be life-changing.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the myriad benefits of early intervention speech therapy for children with autism. We’ll delve into what this therapy entails, how it works, and the transformative effects it can have on a child’s life. Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or educator, this information will help you understand the crucial role of early speech therapy in supporting children with autism.

Understanding Autism and Communication

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that affects how individuals perceive the world, interact with others, and communicate. It’s called a spectrum disorder because it manifests differently in each person, with varying degrees of challenges and strengths.

What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?

ASD is characterized by:

• Difficulties in social interaction and communication
• Restricted or repetitive behaviors and interests
• Sensory sensitivities
• Challenges in understanding and expressing emotions

The Autism Society emphasizes that autism is a lifelong condition, but with proper support and intervention, individuals with ASD can lead fulfilling, independent lives.

Common Communication Challenges in Autistic Children

Communication difficulties are often one of the earliest signs of autism. These challenges can vary widely, but may include:

1. Delayed speech development: Some children may not speak at all, while others might start speaking later than their peers.
2. Echolalia: Repeating words or phrases without understanding their meaning.
3. Difficulty with pragmatic language: Struggles with the social use of language, such as taking turns in conversation or understanding sarcasm.
4. Non-verbal communication issues: Challenges in understanding or using gestures, facial expressions, and body language.
5. Literal interpretation: Difficulty understanding figurative language, jokes, or idioms.
6. Prosody problems: Unusual pitch, rhythm, or intonation in speech.
7. Limited vocabulary: Especially regarding emotional or abstract concepts.

The Role of Speech and Language in Child Development

Speech and language play a crucial role in a child’s overall development. They are fundamental to:

• Cognitive development: Language helps children understand and organize their thoughts.
• Social skills: Communication is key to forming relationships and interacting with others.
• Emotional regulation: Expressing feelings and understanding others’ emotions relies heavily on language.
• Academic success: Strong language skills are essential for learning across all subjects.
• Self-advocacy: The ability to express needs and wants is crucial for independence.

A study published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry found that early language skills are predictive of later cognitive abilities in children with autism. This underscores the importance of addressing communication challenges as early as possible.

By understanding the unique communication challenges faced by children with autism and recognizing the critical role of language in development, we can appreciate why early intervention speech therapy is so vital. In the next section, we’ll explore what this therapy entails and how it specifically targets these areas of difficulty.

What is Early Intervention Speech Therapy?

Early intervention speech therapy is a specialized form of treatment designed to address communication challenges in young children, particularly those with developmental disorders like autism. It’s a proactive approach that aims to support language development during the critical early years of a child’s life.

Definition and Goals

Early intervention speech therapy for autistic children is a comprehensive program that focuses on:

1. Developing verbal and non-verbal communication skills
2. Enhancing social interaction abilities
3. Improving understanding and use of language
4. Building foundational skills for future learning and independence

The primary goal is to help children with autism develop effective communication skills as early as possible, setting them up for success in various aspects of life.

Age Range for “Early Intervention”

The term “early intervention” typically refers to services provided to children from birth to age three. However, for speech therapy in autistic children, this range often extends to include preschool and early school years (up to age 6 or 7).

The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)  emphasizes that earlier intervention leads to better outcomes. This is based on the concept of neuroplasticity – the brain’s ability to form new neural connections, which is particularly high in young children.

Types of Therapies Used

Early intervention speech therapy for autistic children often incorporates various approaches:

• Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA): This therapy uses positive reinforcement to encourage desired behaviors and communication skills.
• Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS): A visual system that helps non-verbal children communicate using picture cards.
• Floortime: A relationship-based therapy that follows the child’s lead to build communication skills through play.
• Verbal Behavior Therapy: Focuses on teaching the purpose of language and motivating children to learn language.
• Naturalistic Developmental Behavioral Interventions (NDBI): Combines behavioral and developmental principles in natural settings.

Here’s a comparison of these therapies:

It’s important to note that these therapies are often used in combination, tailored to each child’s unique needs. The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders  provides more detailed information on these and other communication interventions for children with autism.

Early intervention speech therapy is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It’s a personalized approach that evolves with the child’s progress and changing needs. In the next section, we’ll explore the key benefits of this early intervention approach for children with autism.

Key Benefits of Early Speech Therapy for Autistic Children

Early intervention speech therapy offers a wide array of benefits for children with autism, extending far beyond just improving speech. These benefits can have a profound impact on a child’s overall development and quality of life.

A. Improved Communication Skills

• Verbal Language Development
  Early speech therapy can significantly enhance a child’s ability to express themselves verbally. This includes:
  • Expanding vocabulary
  • Improving sentence structure
  • Enhancing articulation and pronunciation
  • Developing conversational skills

A study published in Pediatrics found that children who received early intervention showed greater improvement in expressive language skills compared to those who started therapy later.

• Non-verbal Communication Enhancement
  Speech therapy also focuses on improving non-verbal communication, which is crucial for autistic children who may struggle with verbal expression. This includes:
  • Understanding and using gestures
  • Interpreting facial expressions
  • Developing appropriate eye contact
  • Using alternative communication methods (e.g., sign language, communication devices)

B. Better Social Interaction

• Understanding Social Cues
  Early intervention helps children with autism:
  • Recognize and interpret social cues
  • Understand turn-taking in conversations
  • Grasp the concept of personal space
  • Comprehend and use appropriate tone of voice
• Developing Peer Relationships
  Improved communication skills lead to better social interactions, helping children:
  • Initiate and maintain friendships
  • Engage in cooperative play
  • Participate in group activities
  • Express empathy and understand others’ perspectives

C. Reduced Frustration and Behavioral Issues

When children can effectively communicate their needs, wants, and feelings, they often experience:

• Decreased tantrums and meltdowns
• Reduced aggressive behaviors
• Improved emotional regulation
• Enhanced self-esteem and confidence

A meta-analysis in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders found that early intervention can lead to significant improvements in adaptive behavior in children with autism.

D. Enhanced Cognitive Development

Early speech therapy can boost cognitive skills by:

• Improving attention and focus
• Enhancing problem-solving abilities
• Developing abstract thinking skills
• Fostering creativity and imagination

E. Increased Independence and Self-Advocacy

As communication skills improve, children with autism become more capable of:

• Expressing their needs and preferences
• Making choices independently
• Asking for help when needed
• Standing up for themselves in various situations

F. Improved Academic Performance

Better communication skills often translate to improved academic outcomes:

• Enhanced reading and writing abilities
• Better comprehension of instructions
• Increased participation in class discussions
• Improved ability to complete assignments

G. Long-term Benefits into Adulthood

The benefits of early intervention extend well into adulthood:

• Higher likelihood of employment
• Better quality of life
• Improved social relationships
• Greater independence in daily living

A long-term study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry found that individuals with autism who received early intervention had better outcomes in adulthood, including higher rates of independence and employment.

By addressing communication challenges early, speech therapy sets the foundation for lifelong learning and development. It’s a powerful tool that can significantly improve the trajectory of an autistic child’s life, opening doors to opportunities that might otherwise remain closed.

How Early Intervention Speech Therapy Works

Early intervention speech therapy is a comprehensive process that involves assessment, planning, and implementation of tailored strategies. Here’s an in-depth look at how it works:

A. Assessment Process

The first step in early intervention speech therapy is a thorough assessment of the child’s communication abilities. This typically involves:

1. Standardized Tests: These evaluate various aspects of speech and language development.
2. Observational Assessments: Therapists observe the child in different settings to understand their communication patterns.
3. Parent Interviews: Caregivers provide valuable insights into the child’s communication at home.
4. Medical History Review: Understanding any underlying medical conditions that may impact communication.

The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)  provides detailed guidelines for assessing communication in children with autism.

B. Individualized Treatment Plans

Based on the assessment results, speech-language pathologists (SLPs) develop personalized treatment plans. These plans:

• Set specific, measurable goals
• Outline therapy approaches and techniques to be used
• Establish a timeline for reassessment and goal adjustment
• Include strategies for generalizing skills to different environments

C. Therapy Techniques and Approaches

SLPs use a variety of evidence-based techniques in early intervention:

1. Play-Based Therapy: Incorporates communication goals into play activities
2. Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC): Introduces tools like picture boards or speech-generating devices.
3. Social Stories: Uses narratives to teach social communication skills.
4. Video Modeling: Demonstrates communication skills through video examples.
5. Pivotal Response Treatment (PRT): Focuses on pivotal areas of a child’s development.

Here’s a comparison of these techniques:

D. Parental Involvement and Home Practice

Parental involvement is crucial for the success of early intervention. This includes:

1. Parent Training: SLPs teach parents techniques to support their child’s communication at home.
2. Home Practice: Families are given activities to reinforce therapy goals in daily life.
3. Regular Updates: Therapists provide ongoing feedback and adjust strategies as needed.

A study in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders found that parent involvement in early intervention led to significantly better outcomes for children with autism.

Therapy Session Structure

A typical early intervention speech therapy session might look like this:

1. Warm-up (5 minutes): Engaging the child through preferred activities.
2. Targeted Skill Practice (15-20 minutes): Focused work on specific communication goals.
3. Naturalistic Practice (15-20 minutes): Practicing skills in play or daily routines.
4. Parent Coaching (5-10 minutes): Discussing progress and strategies with caregivers.

Sessions are usually 30-60 minutes long and occur 1-3 times per week, depending on the child’s needs.

Early intervention speech therapy is a dynamic process that evolves with the child’s progress. Regular reassessments ensure that the therapy remains effective and aligned with the child’s changing needs. By combining structured therapy with home practice and parental involvement, early intervention creates a comprehensive support system for the child’s communication development.

Signs Your Child Might Benefit from Early Speech Therapy

Recognizing the need for early intervention is crucial for maximizing its benefits. Here are some key indicators that your child with autism might benefit from early speech therapy:

A. Red Flags in Communication Development

• Delayed Speech Milestones
  • Not babbling by 12 months
  • No single words by 16 months
  • No two-word phrases by 24 months
• Limited Eye Contact
  • Avoiding eye contact during interactions
  • Not responding to their name by 12 months
• Lack of Gestures
  • Not pointing to objects by 14 months
  • Limited use of communicative gestures (waving, nodding)
• Echolalia
  • Repeating words or phrases without understanding their meaning
  • Using scripted language from TV shows or books instead of spontaneous speech
• Difficulty with Back-and-Forth Communication
  • Not engaging in turn-taking during play or conversation
  • Struggling to maintain a topic of conversation
• Unusual Speech Patterns
  • Monotone voice
  • Odd intonation or rhythm in speech
• Limited Interest in Social Interaction
  • Not showing interest in playing with others
  • Preferring to play alone consistently

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)  provides a comprehensive list of developmental milestones that can help parents track their child’s progress.

B. When to Consult a Professional

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to:

1. Consult Your Pediatrician: They can provide an initial screening and referral if necessary.
2. Seek an Evaluation from a Speech-Language Pathologist: An SLP can conduct a comprehensive assessment of your child’s communication skills.
3. Contact Early Intervention Services: In the U.S., each state has an early intervention program for children under 3. You can find your state’s program through the Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center.
4. Trust Your Instincts: If you’re concerned about your child’s development, don’t wait to seek help. Early intervention is key.

Important Note: Remember that every child develops at their own pace, and not all communication delays indicate autism. However, early assessment and intervention can benefit children regardless of the underlying cause of their communication challenges.

Case Study: The Impact of Early Recognition

Sarah’s Story

Sarah’s parents noticed that at 18 months, she wasn’t using any words and seemed uninterested in communicating. Concerned, they consulted their pediatrician, who referred them to a speech-language pathologist.

After a comprehensive evaluation, Sarah was diagnosed with autism and began early intervention speech therapy. The therapy focused on:

• Encouraging eye contact and joint attention
• Using gestures and simple signs
• Developing early vocabulary through play

By age 3, Sarah had made significant progress:

• She was using over 50 words
• She could follow simple instructions
• She showed increased interest in interacting with others

Sarah’s story illustrates the power of early recognition and intervention. By addressing her communication challenges early, her parents and therapists were able to significantly improve her language skills and social engagement.

Early intervention speech therapy can make a substantial difference in a child’s development. If you have concerns about your child’s communication skills, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice. The earlier the intervention begins, the greater the potential for positive outcomes.

Overcoming Barriers to Early Intervention

While the benefits of early intervention speech therapy for children with autism are clear, many families face challenges in accessing these crucial services. Understanding and addressing these barriers is essential to ensure that all children who need early intervention can receive it.

A. Common Challenges

• 1. Long Waitlists
  Many families face extended waiting periods before they can access speech therapy services. A new report from the Child of the North initiative reveals a crisis in children’s autism assessment in the U.K. The report warns that thousands of autistic children and young people are waiting months—or even years—for health and education support.
• 2. High Costs
  Speech therapy can be expensive, especially if not fully covered by insurance. Out-of-pocket costs can be a significant burden for many families.
• 3. Limited Availability of Specialized Therapists
  There’s often a shortage of speech-language pathologists with expertise in autism, particularly in rural areas.
• 4. Lack of Awareness
  Some parents may not recognize the early signs that their child needs intervention or may not be aware of available services.
• 5. Cultural and Language Barriers
  Families from diverse backgrounds may face additional challenges in accessing culturally appropriate services or services in their primary language.
• 6. Geographic Limitations
  Families in rural or underserved areas may have limited access to specialized services.

B. Resources and Support for Families

Despite these challenges, there are numerous resources available to help families access early intervention services:

• 1. Early Intervention Programs
  – Every U.S. state has an early intervention program for children under 3.
  – Find your state’s program through the Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center.
• 2. Insurance Coverage
  – Many insurance plans cover speech therapy for autism under the Affordable Care Act.
  – Check with your insurance provider about coverage details.
• 3. Medicaid and CHIP
  – These programs can provide coverage for children from low-income families.
  – Learn more at Medicaid.gov .
• 4. Non-Profit Organizations
  – Organizations like Autism Speaks offer grants and resources for families.
• 5. Teletherapy Options
  – Virtual speech therapy sessions can overcome geographic barriers.
  – The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association provides information on teletherapy practices.
• 6. Support Groups
  – Local autism support groups can provide valuable information and resources.
  – Find a group through the Autism Society.
• 7. University Clinics
  – Many universities with speech-language pathology programs offer low-cost services.

Strategies for Overcoming Barriers

Start Early: Begin the process of seeking evaluation and services as soon as concerns arise.

1. Be Persistent: Don’t be discouraged by waitlists. Get on multiple lists if possible.
2. Advocate: Learn about your rights and advocate for your child’s needs.
3. Explore All Options: Consider a combination of services, including private therapy, school-based services, and community programs.
4. Utilize Technology: Consider teletherapy options to overcome geographic limitations.
5. Seek Financial Assistance: Research grants, scholarships, and sliding-scale fee options.
6. Get Involved: Participate in parent training programs to supplement professional therapy.

Case Study: Overcoming Multiple Barriers

The Martinez Family’s Journey

The Martinez family lived in a rural area and faced multiple challenges in accessing speech therapy for their 2-year-old son, Miguel, who was showing signs of autism:

1. Geographic Barrier: The nearest autism specialist was over 100 miles away.
2. Financial Constraint: Their insurance had limited coverage for speech therapy.
3. Language Barrier: The parents were more comfortable communicating in Spanish.

Their Solution:

• They connected with their state’s early intervention program, which provided initial assessments.
• They found a bilingual speech therapist who offered teletherapy sessions.
• They applied for and received a grant from a local autism foundation to supplement therapy costs.
• The parents participated in online training to learn techniques they could use at home.

By creatively combining resources and advocating for their child, the Martinez family was able to overcome multiple barriers and access crucial early intervention services for Miguel.

Overcoming barriers to early intervention requires persistence, creativity, and support. By leveraging available resources and exploring various options, families can increase their chances of accessing the vital services their children need. Remember, every step taken towards early intervention is a step towards improving your child’s future.

Success Stories: Real-Life Examples

The impact of early intervention speech therapy on children with autism can be truly transformative. These real-life examples illustrate how early speech therapy can make a significant difference in a child’s life.

A. Case Studies of Children Who Benefited from Early Speech Therapy

• Ethan’s Journey: From Non-verbal to Conversational

Background:
Ethan was diagnosed with autism at age 2. He was non-verbal and showed little interest in social interaction.

Intervention:

• Started speech therapy at 2.5 years old
• Focused on Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC) initially
• Gradual transition to verbal communication
• Intensive therapy 3 times a week, with home practice

Outcome:
By age 5, Ethan could:

• Speak in full sentences
• Engage in basic conversations
• Express his needs and wants verbally
• Participate in preschool activities with minimal support

Key Takeaway: Early intervention, even for non-verbal children, can lead to significant improvements in communication skills.

Sophia’s Story: Overcoming Social Communication Challenges

Background:
Sophia, diagnosed with autism at 3, struggled with social communication and had limited expressive language.

Intervention:

• Began speech therapy immediately after diagnosis
• Focus on pragmatic language skills and social stories
• Group therapy sessions to practice peer interaction
• Parent coaching for reinforcement at home

Outcome:
By age 6, Sophia showed remarkable progress:

• Initiates conversations with peers
• Understands and uses appropriate social language
• Participates actively in group activities
• Reduced anxiety in social situations

Key Takeaway: Early intervention can significantly improve social communication skills, enhancing overall quality of life.

Liam’s Progress: From Echolalia to Functional Language

Background:
Liam, diagnosed at 2.5 years, primarily used echolalia and had difficulty expressing his needs.

Intervention:

• Started speech therapy at 3 years old
• Used a combination of ABA and naturalistic developmental behavioral interventions
• Focused on building functional vocabulary
• Incorporated play-based therapy to encourage spontaneous language

Outcome:
By age 7, Liam had made substantial progress:

• Uses language functionally to express needs and ideas
• Engages in reciprocal conversations
• Reduced echolalia, increased original speech
• Improved academic performance

Key Takeaway: Early intervention can help transition from repetitive speech patterns to meaningful, functional communication.

Key Factors in Success Stories

1. Early Start: In all these cases, intervention began shortly after diagnosis.
2. Consistency: Regular therapy sessions combined with home practice.
3. Individualized Approach: Therapy tailored to each child’s specific needs.
4. Parental Involvement: Parents actively participated in the therapy process.
5. Comprehensive Approach: Combining speech therapy with other interventions as needed.

These success stories highlight the transformative power of early intervention speech therapy for children with autism.

While every child’s journey is unique, these examples demonstrate that with early, consistent, and tailored intervention, significant improvements in communication and social skills are possible. They offer hope and encouragement to families starting on this path, showing that with the right support, children with autism can overcome communication challenges and thrive.

Finding the Right Speech Therapist

Selecting the right speech therapist is crucial for the success of early intervention. Here’s a guide to help you find the best fit for your child:

A. Qualifications to Look For

B. Questions to Ask Potential Therapists

• What is your experience working with autistic children?
• What therapy approaches do you use?
• How do you involve parents in the therapy process?
• How do you measure progress?
• What is your availability for sessions?
• Do you offer home-based or telehealth services?

Importance of a Good Fit Between Child and Therapist

A strong rapport between the child and therapist is essential for effective therapy. Consider:

• The therapist’s communication style
• Their ability to engage your child
• Your child’s comfort level with the therapist

Researches show that a positive therapeutic relationship can significantly impact treatment outcomes. Check out my previous blog post on this topic.

The Future of Early Intervention Speech Therapy for Autism

A. Emerging Technologies and Approaches

1. Virtual Reality (VR) Therapy: VR environments can provide safe spaces for practicing social communication skills.
2. AI-Assisted Therapy: AI tools can provide personalized practice sessions and track progress.
3. Robotic Assistants: Robots are being developed to assist in therapy sessions, particularly for children who struggle with human interaction.
4. Brain-Computer Interfaces: This technology shows promise in helping non-verbal individuals communicate.

B. Ongoing Research and Promising Developments

1. Genetics Research: Understanding genetic factors may lead to earlier diagnosis and intervention.
2. Neuroplasticity Studies: Research into brain plasticity is informing more effective intervention strategies.
3. Integrated Approaches: Combining speech therapy with other interventions (e.g., occupational therapy, nutrition) for holistic treatment.

The Autism Science Foundation provides updates on the latest research in autism interventions.

Conclusion

A. Recap of the Benefits of Early Intervention Speech Therapy

Early intervention speech therapy offers numerous benefits for children with autism:

• Improved communication skills
• Enhanced social interaction
• Reduced frustration and behavioral issues
• Better cognitive development
• Increased independence and self-advocacy
• Improved academic performance
• Long-term benefits into adulthood

B. Encouragement for Parents to Seek Help Early

The evidence is clear: early intervention can make a significant difference in a child’s life. If you suspect your child may have communication challenges:

• Trust your instincts
• Seek professional evaluation promptly
• Don’t wait to start intervention

C. Final Thoughts on the Impact of Early Speech Therapy on Autistic Children’s Lives

Early intervention speech therapy is not just about improving speech; it’s about opening doors to better communication, social interaction, and overall quality of life. While every child’s journey is unique, the potential for positive change through early intervention is immense.

As Dr. Temple Grandin, a prominent author and speaker on autism, once said:

The most important thing people did for me was to expose me to new things.

Early intervention speech therapy does just that – it exposes children to new ways of communicating and interacting with the world around them, setting the stage for a lifetime of growth and development.

FAQs About Early Intervention Speech Therapy for Autistic Children

How early can speech therapy start for autistic children?

Speech therapy can start as early as 18 months, or as soon as communication challenges are identified.

How long does early intervention speech therapy typically last?

The duration varies, but many children benefit from therapy throughout their early childhood years.

Will my insurance cover early intervention speech therapy?

Many insurance plans cover speech therapy for autism. Check with your provider for specific coverage details.

Can early speech therapy “cure” autism?

While there is no cure for autism, early intervention can significantly improve communication skills and overall functioning.

What’s the difference between a speech therapist and a speech-language pathologist?

These terms are often used interchangeably. Both refer to professionals trained to assess and treat communication disorders.

How can I support my child’s therapy at home?

Reinforce therapy goals in daily activities, create a language-rich environment, and consistently practice techniques recommended by your therapist.

Remember, every step taken towards early intervention is a step towards empowering your child with the tools they need to communicate effectively and navigate the world around them. With the right support, children with autism can make remarkable progress and achieve their full potential.

Resource List

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Autism Data
2. Autism Society – What is Autism?
3. Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry – Early language study
4. American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) – Early Intervention
5. National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders – Autism Spectrum Disorder
6. Pediatrics Journal – Early Intervention Study
7. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders – Meta-analysis on Adaptive Behavior
8. Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry – Long-term Study
9. ASHA Practice Portal – Autism
10. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders – Parent Involvement Study
11. CDC – Developmental Milestones
12. Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center
13. Autism Speaks – National Autism Indicators Report
14. Autism Speaks – Guide to Accessing Services
15. Medicaid.gov – Children’s Health Insurance Program
16. ASHA – Telepractice
17. Autism Society – Finding Your Local Autism Society
18. Pediatrics Journal – Meta-analysis on Early Intervention
19. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders – Early Intensive Behavioral Intervention Study
20. NCBI – Therapeutic Relationship Study
21. Autism Science Foundation – Autism Research
22. Temple Grandin’s Official Website