Developmental Delays
Types of
Developmental Delays
According to the most recent DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders), a majority of developmental delays were eliminated and combined to fit under the autism umbrella. It is now referred to as a spectrum disorder with one end being low-functioning and the other end being high-functioning. These levels are determined by the level of functioning at the onset of the diagnosis of autism.
When to Seek Treatment for Developmental Delays
The best thing you can do is take action and acquire real knowledge about the diagnosis to make great decisions for your child. The earliest help is the best! It is common for parents to go through a “denial” period where they refuse to accept the situation – but it is best to make a move before it is too late.
When to Seek Treatment for Developmental Delays
Autism Spectrum Disorder is a developmental delay that affects the otherwise natural development that a human being goes through over the course of their childhood, adolescence, and adulthood. The term autism refers to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech & nonverbal communication. According to research, we know that there are sub types of autism and each person with autism can have unique strengths and challenges. In the United States, an estimated 1 in 68 children is on the autism spectrum. Click here to learn more.
Other Conditions
ABA Therapy is not only effective with children who have ASD, there are many other conditions that can also be effectively treated with ABA. The conditions listed below can also be treated with our ABA services:
• Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral Palsy is a disorder that typically forms before birth when the brain develops irregularly. The individual may face muscular challenges, developmental delays, and speech disorders. Treatments vary depending on severity, but ABA therapy can always be beneficial to the patient.
• Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders
This occurs when a mother consumes alcohol while her child is in the womb. The child can be born with a number of disorders, including physical abnormalities, behavioral issues, and developmental delays. ABA cannot fix all of these problems, but it can be instrumental in improving behavior and developmental delays.
• Landau-Kleffner Syndrome
Landau-Kleffner Syndrome is a rare childhood disorder that typically shows up between the ages of 3-7. Children will develop normally at first, then begin to lose skills in comprehension and speech due to effects on the brain. ABA works to gain those skills back and walks with the client as they achieve small accomplishments each day.
• Muscular Dystrophy
Muscular Distrophy is the term that applies to 30 genetic diseases that affect the control of movement by weakening the skeletal muscles. Signs of MD can be seen in newborns, but also may not be noticed until middle age or older. The gross/fine motor skills category of ABA therapy can be helpful in gaining strength and skills for these patients.
• Genetic Disorders
A genetic disorder is when an individual has an inherited abnormality in his or her DNA. Different types include Down Syndrome, Cystic Fibrosis, Huntington’s Disease, and many more. When ABA therapy is implemented in these patients’ lives, it can help to improve social, cognitive, comprehensive, and other skills.