The earlier children on the autism are diagnosed and participate in therapy, the greater chance development milestones can be reached. Early intervention has shown to have long-term benefits for functionality and IQ. Young children, with actively developing brains, begin to adopt important life skills and social behaviors. At this critical time, the impact of treatment is heightened and more likely to be carried into adulthood.
In the past, diagnosis was held off as to not label a child with autism until years of evaluations made it coherent. However, studies repeatedly show children who received therapy as early as 2 years old greatly benefit, both in the short and long term. The sooner kids start sessions, the longer period of time the treatment will potentially be covered by insurance or grants. In addition, professional services can alleviate stress and unintentionally perpetuating self-destructive habits and help the family learn coping skills.