Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life. It is a spectrum disorder which includes a large range of symptoms and behaviors. Young children typically display repetitive behaviors, difficulties in verbal and non-verbal communication, social interaction and play activities.

Parents may want to contact their pediatrician for a screening if their child shows some of the behaviors listed below:

Problems with Social Interaction:

• Poor eye contact
• Not responding to his/her name
• Not pointing out items of interest
• Prefers to be alone than around other people or children

Problems with Communication:

• Limited or no language
• No babbling by 12 months or no words by 16 months
• Difficulty starting or having a conversation
• Not playing make-believe with toys

Repetitive or Obsessive Behaviors:

• Repetitive play (e.g., spinning toy car wheels, lining up toys, etc.)
• Unusual obsessions (e.g., only wanting to wear truck shirts, only wanting to use the color green, etc.)
• Repetitive  speech/sounds or body movements (e.g., hand flapping, jumping in place, etc.)

Video on Autism
Behavior Frontiers has produced the most comprehensive video now available showing the characteristics of autism. This video reviews the autism diagnosis and shows children demonstrating the characteristics of autism. This is a must-watch video for everyone who interacts with a child with autism. It is also a valuable opportunity for those who want to learn more about autism or who suspect that a child they know may have autism.

Applied behavior analysis (ABA) has been recognized as an effective intervention for autism spectrum disorders in hundreds of scientific studies, as well as by government and scientific organizations, such as:

• U.S. Surgeon General
• National Autism Center, and
• American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)

In 2007, the AAP reported that “the effectiveness of ABA-based intervention in [autism spectrum disorders] has been well documented through 5 decades of research” and “children who receive early intensive behavioral treatment have been shown to make substantial, sustained gains in IQ, language, academic performance, and adaptive behavior.”Behavior Frontiers is a premiere provider of intensive, early behavior intervention that is individualized to meet the unique needs of each child and their families. Our experienced professionals include Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) who design and supervise the behavior intervention services. Learn more about our treatment services here. Behavior Frontiers Online Training Center offers high-quality, video-based training programs that teach all the ABA skills necessary to effectively interact with children with autism or other specials needs.