New Study: How ABA and ESDM Therapies 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 over a longer period.
What the Researchers Did
Researchers followed a group of children with autism over several years. Some of the children received ABA therapy, while others received ESDM intervention. The researchers then tracked how the children changed in areas like communication, social skills, and adaptive behavior (things like self-care and daily living skills) during that time.
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. Specifically, children in both groups showed improvements in their communication and social skills. The researchers noted that the amount of progress varied from child to child, which isn't surprising since every child is unique!
Why This Matters for Autism Families
This study is helpful because it provides more information about how ABA and ESDM can support children with autism in the long run. Knowing that both therapies have the potential to lead to positive changes can empower parents to make informed decisions about their child's treatment plan. It also highlights the importance of early intervention, as both therapies are typically most effective when started at a young age.
Practical Implications
- Therapy Decisions: If you're considering ABA or ESDM for your child, this study suggests that both are viable options. Talk to your child's doctor or therapist to determine which approach might be the best fit for your child's individual needs and learning style.
- Setting Realistic Expectations: Remember that progress looks different for every child. This study reinforces the idea that therapy is a journey, not a destination, and consistent effort over time can lead to meaningful improvements.
- Collaboration is Key: Whether you choose ABA or ESDM, working closely with therapists, teachers, and other professionals is crucial. A collaborative approach ensures that your child receives consistent support across all areas of their life.
Important Considerations
It's important to remember that this is just one study, and like all research, it has limitations. For example, the study likely had a limited number of participants. More research with larger groups of children is needed to confirm these findings and explore the factors that contribute to individual differences in treatment outcomes. Also, the study design and rigor affect how much weight we give the findings. It's always best to view research findings as one piece of information in the larger puzzle of your child's care.
In Conclusion: This study offers encouraging evidence that both ABA and ESDM therapies can positively impact children with autism over time. By staying informed and working closely with professionals, you can make the best decisions for your child's unique needs.
You can read the original research paper here: Longitudinal changes in children with autism spectrum disorder following ABA therapy or ESDM intervention
Read the study: Frontiers in Pediatrics
