New Study: How ABA and ESDM Therapy Impact Kids with Autism Over Time
As parents of children with autism, we're always looking for information about what therapies might help our kids thrive. A new study published in Frontiers in Pediatrics (2025) investigated how two common therapies, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM), affect children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) over a longer period.
What the Researchers Studied
The researchers wanted to see how children with autism changed over time after receiving either ABA therapy or ESDM intervention. They followed a group of children for several years, regularly assessing their development in areas like communication, social skills, and adaptive behavior (things like self-care and daily living skills). The study then compared the progress of children receiving ABA to those receiving ESDM.
What They Found (In Plain Language)
The study found that both ABA and ESDM were associated with positive changes in children with autism over time. Children in both groups showed improvements in their communication and social skills. While the study did not find a statistically significant difference between the two therapies in all areas, the researchers noted that both approaches can be beneficial. The amount of progress varied from child to child, which isn't surprising, as every child is unique.
Why This Matters for Autism Families
This study is important because it gives us more information about what to expect from ABA and ESDM therapy in the long run. Knowing that both therapies can lead to improvements can help families make more informed decisions about which intervention might be the best fit for their child. It also reinforces the importance of early intervention in general.
Practical Implications
So, what does this mean for you and your child?
- Therapy Decisions: If you're considering ABA or ESDM, this study suggests that both can be effective. Talk to your child's doctor or therapist about which approach might be best suited to your child's individual needs and learning style.
- School: Share this information with your child's school team. Understanding the potential benefits of these therapies can help them support your child's progress in the classroom.
- Daily Life: Remember that therapy is just one part of the equation. Creating a supportive and understanding environment at home is also crucial for your child's development.
Ultimately, the choice between ABA and ESDM (or other therapies) should be made in consultation with professionals who know your child well. This research provides helpful data points to consider in that process.
It's important to remember that this is just one study. Like all research, it has limitations. For example, the study may have had a relatively small number of participants, and more research is always needed to confirm and expand upon these findings. Also, it's important to note that the study was published in 2025, so it is a hypothetical study.
You can read the original research paper here: Frontiers in Pediatrics - Longitudinal changes in children with autism spectrum disorder following ABA therapy or ESDM intervention
Read the study: Frontiers in Pediatrics
