A diagnosis ofautism from the age of six months would subsequently eliminate the symptoms of the disease, according to a brand new American study, published in the scientific journal Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders.
Currently, most children with autism are diagnosed from the age of 3, especially when a language delay occurs.
Here, researchers from the UC David MIND Institute in California (United States) have chosen to focus on autistic children aged 6 to 15 months.
These presented with characteristic symptoms: loss of eye contact and interest in social interactions, repetitive movements and lack of communication.
The treatment tested in infants was then “delivered” by those who spent the most time with infants: the parents themselves.
With the help and support of the therapists, the parents made sure to promote interactions with the child as best as possible so as to develop an interest in the child. infant.
Parents then tried to create a pleasant social routine for the child, in order to increase his ability to learn.
The interventions focused on increasing parent-child interactions, bringing smiles and joy to the pair formed. The use of toys to support the child’s attention was also being tested.
Six in seven children without symptoms by the age of 3
“Six out of seven children have regained their ability tolearning and language between their 2nd and 3rd birthday, ”says Professor Rogers, lead author of the study.
“And it is the parents, not the therapists, who made this possible, insists the researcher, the parents are with their babies on a daily basis. It is these little moments, during diaper changes, meals, games, walks, that make the crucial learning moments for these babies. And only parents can reap all the benefits. “
If the study gives much hope as to the possibilities of autism treatments, it especially highlights the need to develop an early diagnosis, before the child’s schooling, if we want to obtain the best results.
Source:
Intervention in 6-month-olds with autism ameliorates symptoms, alleviates developmental delay, UC Davis Health System
