When it comes to treating autism, new methods are constantly getting developed. But no two children are alike and this means finding the right type of therapy for your autistic child can feel like a huge challenge. But that doesn’t mean you’re without resources. The right combination of therapies can work wonders for your child. You just need to know what’s out there. Here are five great therapy options to consider.
Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapy is designed to give your child the tools they need to function in daily life. During sessions, they’ll learn practical skills like buttoning a shirt, holding a pencil, and other such skills in a way that encourages retention and focus. Many tasks are presented in a fun way to encourage children to participate willingly.
Applied Behavior Analysis
Applied Behavior Analysis or ABA is used to help reinforce the positive behaviors your child already has while helping them develop new positive skills. These can include coping with overwhelming stimuli, interacting in a classroom environment, and improving overall social skills. Each child is different and every treatment protocol will be tailored to their unique challenges and needs.
Therapeutic Riding
Many children with autism struggle to identify with and relate to other people. And though addressing those issues when treating autism is helpful, it’s also helpful to give your child a different type of outlet. Therapeutic horseback riding combines aspects of occupational therapy and ABA during sessions. But instead of working in an office with a therapist, your child works with a certified horseback riding instructor and a horse. Many children see their motor skills improve after sessions and some even open up more after gaining confidence and developing a connection with the horses themselves.
Speech Therapy
For many, a huge goal of treating autism is improving their child’s communication skills. And though speech therapy does focus on verbal communication, it’s far more than that. During sessions, therapists will help your child with all methods of communication including non-verbal body language, understanding unspoken cues, and improving personal communication skills. This may involve verbal communication, but for some children it can involve using sign language, pictures, or other established methods of communication.
Social Skills Classes
For many autistic children, forming connections with their peers and adults alike can be tough. Social skills classes help them learn how to function in social situations like school, work, and community events. These classes also teach parents how to help their children thrive in social situations, making it particularly effective for treating autism in the long-term.
Schedule an Appointment
Most of these therapies can and should be combined to create a holistic treatment program for your child. It’s important to remember that treating autism is different for every person. What works for the majority of patients may not work for your child and that’s okay. The important thing is to try and keep looking for something that clicks with them. Schedule a consultation today and let us help you help your child.