Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability caused by differences in the brain. People with ASD often have problems with social communication and interaction, and restricted or repetitive behaviors or interests. People with ASD may also have different ways of learning, moving, or paying attention. It is important to note that some people without ASD might also have some of these symptoms. But for people with ASD, these characteristics can make life very challenging.

For more information, visit CDC - Autism

Talk to your child’s pediatrician and ask for a developmental screening. The screening tools used by doctors are more thorough than online checklists, and they may give you more reliable information about your child’s abilities and progress. For an example of an online checklist click here .

You can also ask your pediatrician for a referral to a developmental specialist like a pediatric neurologist, occupational therapist, speech/language therapist, or a psychologist who specializes in evaluating children.

For more information, visit Early Signs

At each stage of development, children are expected to reach different milestones. Although each child is different, having a point of reference is a key factor in determining if there may be a delay requiring immediate intervention.

CDC developmental milestones

Download PDF of milestones

Download a Milestones Checklist

According to research, early identification and treatment of autism are more likely to have a significant long-term favorable impact on symptoms. Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) occasionally have their diagnoses made before they turn two. Some toddlers with ASD who have appeared to be developing normally up until that point, start to regress before or sometime during their second year.

Children who receive early treatments not only have the finest possible start in life, but also the best chance of reaching their full potential. The likelihood that a youngster will learn and develop increases the earlier they receive assistance.*

*source: NIH: National Institute of Child Health and Human Development

ABA stands for Applied Behavior Analysis, and centers around the science of how behaviors are established. The goal of ABA Therapy is to increase appropriate behaviors and decrease behaviors which inhibit access to learning new skills. Each child’s ABA Therapy program is unique and catered towards their specific needs.

At Asha ABA, we utilize research based, child centered treatment programs to maximize each child’s success.

Please see the BACB Guideline for ABA Therapy here.

Not all treatments are beneficial. They might sound amazing, almost too good to be true. At Asha ABA, we only utilize research-based treatment approaches. For more information on treatment types, click the link below:

Compare Treatments