What Age Is Best to Begin ABA Therapy?

If your child has received a diagnosis of autism, it was likely recommended that your child receive ABA therapy services. According to the CDC, about one in every 36 children has autism spectrum disorder. You may be wondering what the optimal age to start ABA is. This guide will walk you through the key factors to consider when deciding what age is best to begin ABA therapy for your child.

When Do Symptoms of Autism First Emerge?

For most children, the first signs of autism appear before age three. Early symptoms may include lack of eye contact, delayed speech development, difficulty relating to others, repetitive behaviors, and extreme sensitivity to stimuli in the environment (i.e. lights, sounds). On average, children obtain a diagnosis between 14 months to around three years on average. The earlier autism can be diagnosed, the sooner ABA therapy services can begin to make an impact.

Why Starting ABA Therapy Early Matters

Starting with ABA therapy services as early as ages two to three can offer the most significant improvements. Research from the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development shows the younger a child begins treatment, the better the outcome. Benefits of early intervention may include improved cognitive, social, and language skills; increased IQ and academic performance; more positive behaviors and independence; and higher quality of life long-term. ABA therapy can equip children with autism with skills at their most critical point in development, as neural pathways are more malleable, setting up children for long-term gains.

When Early Intervention May Not Be Feasible

Of course, beginning ABA at a very young age is not possible for all families. Some children are diagnosed later or face barriers to accessing services. ABA can still provide meaningful improvements at older ages, as progress depends on multiple factors. While starting ABA therapy services at ages two to three is ideal, beginning at any age and gaining benefits from the service is possible. Don’t hesitate to explore options regardless of the age of your child.

If you're interested in seeking help for your child with autism, look no further than our experienced team of Registered Behavior Technicians and Board Certified Behavior Analysts at Spectacular Kids. Work with us to begin ABA services for your child as early as possible. Acting early allows your child to develop foundational skills when their brain is most receptive to change. If you're ready to learn more about ABA therapy services and whether they're right for your child, call us today at Spectacular Kids for a consultation.