The latest study published by researchers from the University of Washington indicates that behaviour therapy for two years in autistic children as young as 18 months can significantly improve symptoms and result in better behavior.
The small study has led to renewed interests in this therapy in many centers where autistic children are treated. The treatment of autism has been getting more consideration partly because so many quasi treatment claims have been made before. Most of the previous treatments have failed but this latest study appears to show some promise at least for the short term.
Moreover, there is a growing trend to treat autism at a much earlier age. This study showed that when treatment is started as early as 18 months, the results are great.
Children aged 18 to 30 months were randomly allocated to receive behavior treatment called the Early Start Denver model from therapists and parents, or they were referred to other types of less comprehensive treatments. The Denver model focuses more on social interaction and communication which are the most difficult features of autistic children.