Early Intervention
According to the US Department of Health and Human Services, research shows that early diagnosis of and interventions for autism are more likely to have major long-term positive effects on symptoms and later skills. Early interventions occur at or before preschool age, as early as 2 or 3 years of age. Early intervention programs often include:
- Family training
- Speech therapy
- Hearing impairment services
- Physical therapy
- Nutrition services
In this period, a young child’s brain is still forming, meaning it is more “plastic” or changeable than at older ages. Because of this plasticity, treatments have a better chance of being effective in the longer term.Early interventions not only give children the best start possible, but also the best chance of developing to their full potential. The sooner a child gets help, the greater the chance for learning and progress. In fact, recent guidelines suggest starting an integrated developmental and behavioral intervention as soon as ASD is diagnosed or seriously suspected.
There are many types of early intervention treatment. It is important that yo research what is the best fit for your child and family. A program that only provides 1-2 hours a week is not going to be as intensive as a program that provides 10-15 hours a week. You may need multiple therapies including speech, occupational therapy, and behavioral to put together a program that meets your child’s needs.
In California, there are different ways to get these services, but the two main ways for children who have autism or are suspected of having autism are:
- Early Start (through the Inland Regional Center)
- Medical Insurance
Family Support
Carousel Developmental Service-In Home Early Intervention
Early Intervention Services offered in Riverside and San Bernardino Counties to children ages 0-3 years old
909-469-2022
Early Start Family Resource Network (ESFRN)
1 (800) 974-5553
www.esfrn.org
The purpose of the ESFRN is to provide supportive services which include education, resources, and training to families with children who are at risk for or are experiencing delays or disabilities; To enhance parent awareness by linking families with appropriate services in their communities.
To promote parent and professional collaboration by acknowledging the family’s central role in all aspects of the decision-making process and utilizing their strengths; and to provide a coordinated network of parent to parent support throughout Riverside and San Bernardino Counties in California. Can provide services in English and Spanish.
E.T.A.S. (Early Intervention and Therapy for Young Children)
Servicing Riverside and San Bernardino Counties (Ages 0-3)
909-795-4255
Offers Early Intervention Services-Infant Development Program, Intensive Behavior Services, Nursing based specialists for medically fragile infants and toddlers, and specialized therapeutic services.
KidPower Early Intervention
Servicing Riverside and San Bernardino Counties
909-783-1111
Loma Linda University Study
www.stepsproject.com
Dr. Cameron Neece, an Associate Professor of Psychology specializing in childhood disorders, parenting, and family processes, and her research team at Loma Linda University have intervention studies that offer FREE support services to parents of young children (ages 3-5) with ASD. Parents receive a free evidenced-based intervention that research shows helps reduce parent stress and child behavior problems. The intervention is offered in English and Spanish. Parents are also be paid to complete some questionnaires. If you are interested in learning more please visit the project website. You can enter your information on the website and someone from the research team will contact you.
Wayfinder Family Services Early Intervention Services
Servicing Ages 0-3 years old in San Bernardino and Riverside Counties
323-295-4555
www.wayfinderfamily.org
IRC Vendor #: H18795
IRC vendor Code: 805
The Autism Society Inland Empire Autism (ASIE) maintains these Resource Listings as a service to families as a reference tool. Every effort is made to ensure listings are up-to-date. ASIE does not endorse or claim to have personal knowledge of the abilities of those listed. The resources listed are not intended as a recommendation, referral, or endorsement of any resource or as a tool for verifying the credentials, qualifications, or abilities of any organization, product or professional. Users are urged to use independent judgment and request references when considering any resource associated with diagnosis or treatment of autism, or the provision of services related to autism.
