Parents As Therapists for Young Children with Autism?

An individualized parent-implemented early social intervention was associated with improved child outcomes.

Studies of toddlers and preschool-age children with autism have shown that intense early social intervention (ESI) guided by a clinician can produce significant improvements in behavioral outcomes. In ESI programs, a therapist works one on one with a child using an evidence-based behavior modification program.

Families of 82 children ages 16 to 20 months with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) were randomized to two 9-month parent-implemented ESIs. In one, therapists met with parents individually for two or three sessions per week, with at least one session at home. In the other, therapists met with a group of four or five families in a clinic for one session per week. In both, parents learned how to use evidence-based strategies for behavior ta…

Reviewing Author

Martin T. Stein, MD

Disclosures

Consultant / Advisory boardPearson Neuroscience Advisory Board

Speaker’s bureauAmerican Academy of Pediatrics

RoyaltiesElsevier, Inc.

Editorial boardsJournal of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics