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 work best. 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
Researchers wanted to understand how children with autism change over time when receiving either ABA or ESDM therapy. They followed a group of children with ASD for several years, tracking their progress in different areas like communication, social skills, and adaptive behavior (things like daily living skills). The study compared the progress of children receiving ABA to those receiving ESDM.
What They Found (In Plain Language)
The study suggested that both ABA and ESDM were associated with positive changes in children with autism over time. Children in both therapy groups showed improvements in communication and social skills. While both groups improved, the researchers noted some subtle differences in the rate of progress in certain areas, with one group potentially showing slightly faster gains in a specific skill early on. However, it's important to note that these differences weren't huge and both therapies seemed to be helpful overall.
Why This Matters for Autism Families
This study is helpful because it looks at the long-term impact of these therapies. Many studies only look at changes over a shorter period. Knowing that both ABA and ESDM can lead to positive changes over several years can be reassuring for parents choosing a therapy approach.
Practical Implications
- Therapy Decisions: This research reinforces that both ABA and ESDM can be effective interventions. The "best" therapy often depends on your child's individual needs, your family's preferences, and what's available in your area.
- Realistic Expectations: Therapy takes time. This study highlights that improvements happen over years, not just weeks or months.
- Collaboration: This study highlights the importance of a collaborative approach between therapists, educators, and families. Open communication and shared goals can maximize the benefits of therapy.
Limitations to Keep in Mind
It's important to be aware of the study's limitations. This is just one study, and more research is always needed. Also, the sample size wasn't huge, so the findings might not apply to all children with autism. Finally, the study only looked at ABA and ESDM; other therapies may also be effective.
The Bottom Line
This study provides encouraging evidence that both ABA and ESDM therapy can lead to positive, long-term changes for children with autism. It's a reminder that early intervention and consistent therapy can make a real difference. Talk to your doctor or therapist to determine the best approach for your child.
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
