The Significance Of Early Intervention In Toddlers With Autism: An Examination Of The Parent-Centred Approach.

Abstract

In India, the primary approach to managing Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) is psychosocial treatments, but children typically undergo diagnostic testing only after reaching age 4. This delay in providing timely management interventions can have significant consequences for the well-being and development of these children. This study aimed to conduct a comprehensive intervention on children, focusing on various aspects of their development, targeting parents as the primary mode of communication. The intervention consisted of supplementing current care with active involvement of parents and children in all sessions, lasting 4 hours per day, spanning 6 days. The study found that all participants met the full criteria outlined in the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers, Revised with Follow-Up (M-CHAT-R™) for being at risk for ASD. The active treatment group exhibited notable enhancements in the final assessment measure, known as the Assessment, Evaluation and Programming System for Infants and Children (AEPS®-3). The findings suggest that implementing a randomised two-group pre-post comparative design for intervening with children at risk for ASD is feasible and well-received by parents