Autism can be difficult to identify in your children. Moderate symptoms may not manifest until a child is older. A targeted intervention program in Fort Worth, Texas, helps specialists identify challenges that autistic children face and provide therapy that improves both cognitive and behavioral skills.

Types of Therapy in a Targeted Intervention Program

Early intervention often includes both their child and their family partnering with specialists to create a healthy environment where a child can function. As the child grows and develops, a targeted intervention program adopts different forms of intervention. An early intervention program in Fort Worth, Texas, reduces unfavorable behaviors while shaping new behaviors, such as learning how to speak or play with others. A program may involve ongoing intense interaction between the child and the teacher for several hours per week. A child may engage in an array of therapies such as:

Verbal Behavior

The child learns focused language, as the teacher guides the child through simple verbal behaviors and more advanced communication skills. A child that learns to communicate has a better chance of interacting with others more successfully.

Pivotal Response Training

The teacher identifies skills that impact a range of communication, social, and behavioral skills. A child that can improve certain pivotal skills is more likely to succeed in other areas of their life.

Building Capabilities

The goal here is to build a child’s capabilities instead of focusing solely on their skills. A teacher may help a child develop social, intellectual, or emotional capabilities, which lays the groundwork for skill-building.

Visual Learning

Visual learning forms the core of how a child with autism develops skills or capabilities. A tear uses clearly-marked words or pictures to help children identify skills or activities independently. One of the goals of visual learning is instilling a sense of self-empowerment in the child. 

Interpersonal Synchrony

It is vital that a child with autism learn how to interact with others. Interpersonal synchrony focuses on social development skills. A child learns how to engage with other children or adults in various social settings. They learn how to communicate and how to play with others. 

Autism Spectrum Disorder Treatment Programs

Autism spectrum disorder treatment programs in Fort Worth, Texas, provides comprehensive evidence-based ABA autism spectrum disorder treatment. Autism spectrum disorder treatment programs include:

• Parental services program
• Social skills work program

The benefits of an evidence-based ABA autism spectrum disorder treatment program include:

• Provides a more focused and comprehensive method for working with young children
• Each child has more one-on-one time with a teacher or therapist
• Training is available for parents and other members of the family
• The child’s progress is measurable, allowing adjustments in an intervention
• Programs are structured and based on routines and schedules
• Children learn new skills in new situations with new people

Intervention Program Curriculum

The curriculum in an intervention program focuses on communication and language. Children develop a better sense of communication using various forms of therapy throughout each week. Therapists also use an array of tools so help children develop their social skills, daily living skills, and basic skills such as grooming or getting dressed.  All methods for intervention are based on years of research, peer-reviewed academic study, as well as ongoing child observation. Many of these methods help children work through challenging and aggressive behaviors, will stimulating various cognitive and readiness skills. As such, programs are holistic, fostering development in all areas of a child’s life.

Get Your Child Started Today

If you are interested in getting your child tested for autism, contact an early intervention program in your local area. A targeted intervention program can help your child get an early start in life and overcome many of the challenges associated with autism. Speak with a treatment specialist about treatment options for your child.