Children with autism need to learn, create, communicate, and engage with the world around them. Yet, they may not use these skills in the way other children do. That’s why the types of autism therapy they have and utilize will range widely from one child to the next. At Camp Worth in Fort Worth, Texas, we offer a range of therapy options to help meet most needs.
Common Types of Autism Therapy
Autism therapy programs center around improving outcomes, not curing the condition. It is possible to see improvement in behavior, social skills, and relationships over time. These common therapy options may be used to help children with autism to function at their best.
- Behavioral analysis – Behavioral analysis is one of the most accepted tools for improving skills for children with autism. This approach includes discrete trial training and early intensive behavioral intervention. Behavioral analysis teaches new skills and uses consistency to produce results.
- Assistive technology – Children with autism do well with technology such as communication boards and tablet computers. These tools can give them a way to communicate with others and engage with other people effectively.
- Occupational therapy – In this therapeutic approach, children with autism learn about life skills. This includes things like eating, bathing, dressing, and relating to other people. Occupational therapy enables them to participate in their life more fully.
- Speech therapy – Some children with autism benefit from speech therapy, which is a way to improve communication skills. Remember that communication is not always verbal. It may also include using picture boards or gestures.
- Social skills training – Learning to interact with other people is a significant part of autism therapy. Social skills training may include learning conversation skills and tackling problem-solving methods.
There are other types of autism therapy. For example, Floortime, also known as development, individual differences, and relationship-based approach, focuses on emotional and relational skill development. This can help to focus on dealing with smells, sounds, or sights.
Additional Treatment Options for Children with Autism
Other tools may also benefit children with autism. These tools may include:
- Medications to help manage symptoms, hyperactivity, and seizures
- Dietary changes to help minimize stress from pain often associated with gluten allergies
- Alternative medication treatments to help with specific needs, including mind-body medicine
How Autism Therapy Programs Work
With such a range of therapy options out there, it’s difficult to see how this can work to create the type of outcome desired. The first step is an assessment. Parents can help by providing insight into what concerns are present and how the child interacts with the world around them. From there, it’s possible to start working on changes.
Most children with autism will use more than one of these types of therapies. They will spend some time in each area working with a therapist or other provider. The key is to find a way to reach the child. That often means trying out different approaches and methods to see which creates the best results.
Over time and with consistency, many children see improvement. All of the skills taught in therapy have to be consistent at home, too. That’s why parents play such a big role in the process. It takes only a matter of minutes to see the value of these therapies. They can create new opportunities for engagement.
Find the Therapy Best for Your Needs Today at Discover Camp Worth
The types of autism therapy listed here may not all fit with your child’s needs. Yet, there are programs that are available to help. To learn more about types of autism therapy, check out Discover Camp Worth in Fort Worth, Texas. Call our team today at 855.915.2545 or connect with us online to learn more.